1956 Abarth 600 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Abarth 600 (41 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Abarth 600 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 155 kg more than 1956 Abarth 600.
Because 1956 Abarth 600 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 1956 Abarth 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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:
1956 Abarth 600 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 600 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1956 | 1959 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 746 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 41 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |