1959 Abarth 2200 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 53 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 2200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 2200 would be higher. At 2,161 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 2200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 2200. (135 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 2200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 320 kg more than 1959 Abarth 2200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 2200 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 2200. 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 (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 2200. (187 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 2200. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1959 Abarth 2200 has manual transmission. 1959 Abarth 2200 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 2200 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2200 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2161 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
