2003 Ford Econovan vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Econovan.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Econovan. (139 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Econovan | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Econovan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2520 mm |
