1998 Ford Explorer vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Ford Explorer is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Explorer (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1160 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1956 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
