1985 Ford Escort vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Ford Escort (103 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1985 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
