1959 Abarth 850 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 850 would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 825 kg more than 1959 Abarth 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Abarth 850 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 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 850 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 850 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |
