1991 Ford Mustang vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1991 Ford Mustang. (106 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 6 kg more than 1991 Ford Mustang. 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Mustang. (183 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 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 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Mustang New Beetle
Year Released 1991 2007
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2301 cc 1781 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 5 valves
Horse Power 106 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 4600 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 183 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 79.5 mm 86.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 4 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1260 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 4560 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1330 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2510 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 45 L 55 L