1959 Alvis TD vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alvis TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alvis TD would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Alvis TD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1959 Alvis TD. (117 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Alvis TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Alvis TD weights approximately 45 kg more than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 1959 Alvis TD 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 Alvis TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alvis TD. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alvis TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alvis TD | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Alvis | Volkswagen |
| Model | TD | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4277 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
