1999 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1983 Ford Tempo
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 89 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 138 kg more than 1983 Ford Tempo.
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 (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo. 1983 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1983 Ford Tempo | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | New Beetle | Tempo |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 2307 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2540 mm |
