1991 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 17 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1991 Ford Mustang. (106 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1991 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Mustang weights approximately 29 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Ford Mustang. (183 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| 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 | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
