1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 126 kg more than 2008 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 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 1997 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. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Mustang has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Mustang will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
