1985 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Ford Mustang. (87 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 94 kg more than 1985 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Ford Mustang 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 1985 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Mustang. (161 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Ford Mustang | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2294 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 87 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 220 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1279 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |