1991 Ford Mustang vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Mustang 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 6 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 96 kg more than 1991 Ford Mustang.
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, 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 (250 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Mustang. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Ford Mustang.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Ford Mustang | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2301 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
