2003 Ford Mustang vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang 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 4,599 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 357 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 660 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.
Because 2003 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 2003 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (556 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 470 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4599 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 400 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 556 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |