2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Explorer weights approximately 152 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Explorer | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Explorer | Beetle |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 292 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 427 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2410 mm |