1988 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 524 kg more than 1988 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Fiesta. (68 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 768 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2520 mm |
