1960 Abarth 600 vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 43 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 225 kg more than 1960 Abarth 600.
Because 1960 Abarth 600 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 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Abarth 600. (57 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Abarth 600 | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 600 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 747 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |
