1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1959 Abarth 1600 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Abarth 1600 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1959 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2410 mm |
