1959 Abarth Spider Riviera vs. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1960 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera (47 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 190 kg more than 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera.
Because 1959 Abarth Spider Riviera 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 Spider Riviera. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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 Spider Riviera | 1960 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | Spider Riviera | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1960 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 785 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3640 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
