1988 Ford Sierra vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1988 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 255 kg more than 1988 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Sierra 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 Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Ford Sierra | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Sierra | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 123 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |