1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (75 HP) has 37 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 150 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 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 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1392 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 38 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
