1959 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,582 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 270 kg more than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 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 Volkswagen Beetle | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Beetle | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1582 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1480 mm |
