1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 1600. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 179 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600. 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, 1994 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
