2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Econovan (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Econovan should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 286 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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, 2001 Ford Econovan (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
