2008 Ford Ranger vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Ford Ranger is newer by 4 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 2,970 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 172 kg more than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. 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, 2008 Ford Ranger (245 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 2008 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ranger | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ranger | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2970 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 1279 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
