1996 Ford Escort vs. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 1137 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2010 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 2307 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
