2003 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 1988 Ford Aerostar
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Aerostar (143 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Aerostar should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 118 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Ford Aerostar 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 1988 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1988 Ford Aerostar (224 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 Ford Aerostar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | 1988 Ford Aerostar | |
Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
Model | New Beetle | Aerostar |
Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 155 Nm | 224 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 88.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1292 kg | 1410 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1860 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3030 mm |