1953 Opel Rekord vs. 1957 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1957 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Opel Rekord (44 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Opel Rekord weights approximately 196 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Opel Rekord 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 1953 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Opel Rekord | 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Rekord | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1560 mm |
