1991 Ford Mustang vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1991 Ford Mustang is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,301 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Mustang (106 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Mustang weights approximately 500 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Ford Mustang 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 1991 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen 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, 1991 Ford Mustang (183 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1991 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Mustang | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
