2008 Ford E-150 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2008 Ford E-150 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Ford E-150 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford E-150 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford E-150 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford E-150 weights approximately 257 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford E-150 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 2008 Ford E-150. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 2008 Ford E-150 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford E-150 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford E-150 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | E-150 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1077 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6030 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2410 mm |
