1958 Abarth 1000 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Abarth 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Abarth 1000 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1958 Abarth 1000. (87 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1958 Abarth 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 653 kg more than 1958 Abarth 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Abarth 1000 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 1958 Abarth 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Abarth 1000. (96 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Abarth 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Abarth 1000 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 996 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 680 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
