2003 Ford Freestar vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Ford Freestar is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Freestar (190 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Freestar weights approximately 1120 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Ford Freestar (336 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Freestar | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Freestar | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3801 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1940 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2410 mm |
