2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 214 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2510 mm |
