1989 Ford Escort vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,700 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Escort (59 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1978 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 @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Escort | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Escort | Beetle |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1700 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |