2003 Ford Mustang vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (390 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 342 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 (530 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Mustang | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Mustang | Beetle |
Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4601 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 390 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 530 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 90.2 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 95 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1662 kg | 1320 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |