1959 Talbot Lago America vs. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Talbot Lago America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Talbot Lago America would be higher. At 2,351 cc (8 cylinders), 1959 Talbot Lago America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1959 Talbot Lago America. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Talbot Lago America. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 230 kg more than 1959 Talbot Lago America. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Talbot Lago America 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 Talbot Lago America. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1959 Talbot Lago America (191 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle. (152 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1959 Talbot Lago America will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Talbot Lago America | 2000 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Talbot | Volkswagen |
| Model | Lago America | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2000 |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2520 mm |
