1998 Ford Escort vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 36 kg more than 1998 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Escort | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1206 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
