1989 Ford Escort vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
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, 1989 Ford Escort (109 Nm) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Escort | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
