1956 Aston Martin DB2 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Aston Martin DB2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Aston Martin DB2 would be higher. At 2,920 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Aston Martin DB2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1956 Aston Martin DB2. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Aston Martin DB2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 158 kg more than 1956 Aston Martin DB2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Aston Martin DB2 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 Aston Martin DB2. 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. Let's talk about torque, both vehicles can yield 240 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Aston Martin DB2 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | DB2 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2920 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L | 55 L |
