1989 Ford Aerostar vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Aerostar (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (115 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Aerostar should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 79 kg more than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Aerostar 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 1989 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1989 Ford Aerostar (224 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Aerostar | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Aerostar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.9 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2520 mm |
