1959 Abarth 850 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 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 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1959 Abarth 850. (70 HP @ 6800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 770 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Abarth 850. (80 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 850 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 847 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 70 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 80 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 30 L | 55 L |