1998 Ford Mustang vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Ford Mustang is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Mustang (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Mustang weights approximately 650 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Mustang | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3797 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
