2000 Ford Mustang vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Ford Mustang is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,603 cc (8 cylinders), 2000 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Mustang (260 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Mustang weights approximately 720 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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. Let's talk about torque, 2000 Ford Mustang (406 Nm) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2000 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Mustang | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mustang | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4603 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 406 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 40 L |
