1957 Hudson Metropolitan vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1957 Hudson Metropolitan. (47 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Hudson Metropolitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 345 kg more than 1957 Hudson Metropolitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Hudson Metropolitan. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Hudson Metropolitan.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Hudson Metropolitan | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Hudson | Volkswagen |
| Model | Metropolitan | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2860 mm |
