1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (35 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 389 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Fairthorpe Atom 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 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (49 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Fairthorpe | Volkswagen |
Model | Atom | Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 1974 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 646 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 35 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 49 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 431 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |