1989 Ford Probe vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 91 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Probe (180 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |
