1960 Abarth 1600 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1960 Abarth 1600. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1960 Abarth 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 509 kg more than 1960 Abarth 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Abarth 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 1960 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1960 Abarth 1600 has manual transmission. 1960 Abarth 1600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Abarth 1600 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
