1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 165 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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 Fiesta (138 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1954 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 905 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2410 mm |
