1997 Ford Falcon vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 5,766 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Falcon (301 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Falcon should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Falcon weights approximately 274 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Falcon 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 1997 Ford Falcon. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1997 Ford Falcon (515 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Falcon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Falcon | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Falcon | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5766 cc | 1983 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 301 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 515 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1674 kg | 1400 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |