1988 Ford Mustang vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Ford Mustang. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 86 kg more than 1988 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Mustang. (176 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Mustang | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2301 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1254 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2470 mm |