1957 Abarth 500 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 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) has 148 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 893 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Abarth 500 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 500 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1957 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 478 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 20 HP | 168 HP |
Torque | 32 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 93 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2537 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |