2006 Ford Fusion vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle would be higher. At 2,278 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 515 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 Ford Fusion 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 2006 Ford Fusion. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2006 Ford Fusion (212 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Fusion 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Ford Volkswagen
Model Fusion New Beetle
Year Released 2006 2001
Body Type Sedan Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2278 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 160 HP 101 HP
Engine RPM 6250 RPM 5900 RPM
Torque 212 Nm 148 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1715 kg 1200 kg
Vehicle Length 4840 mm 4090 mm
Vehicle Width 1840 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1460 mm 1500 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 55 L