1989 Ford Probe vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 106 kg more than 1989 Ford Probe. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Probe | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
