1989 Ford Sierra vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Sierra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Sierra would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1989 Ford Sierra. (74 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Sierra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 380 kg more than 1989 Ford Sierra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Ford Sierra 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 1989 Ford Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Sierra. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Sierra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Sierra | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sierra | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
