1957 Abarth 750 vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 750. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 750 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 750. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 750. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 728 kg more than 1957 Abarth 750. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 750 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 750. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 750. (54 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 750.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 750 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 750 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 585 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
