2004 Volkswagen New Beetle vs. 2011 Ford E-350
To start off, 2011 Ford E-350 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1599 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Ford E-350 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 2011 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2011 Ford E-350 (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | 2011 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | New Beetle | E-350 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1896 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1231 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 2111 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 3505 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 125 L |
