1955 Fairthorpe Atom vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 58 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 943 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, 2013 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. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1955 Fairthorpe Atom has manual transmission. 1955 Fairthorpe Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Fairthorpe | Volkswagen |
| Model | Atom | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 322 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 15 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 57 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 417 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 20 L | 55 L |
