2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 2102 kg more than 1961 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Explorer | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 40 L |
