1957 Opel Kapitan 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 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Opel Kapitan would be higher. At 2,473 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Opel Kapitan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1957 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1957 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 165 kg more than 1957 Opel Kapitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Opel Kapitan 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 Opel Kapitan. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Opel Kapitan | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kapitan | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2473 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2537 mm |
