1960 Abarth 700 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 Abarth 700 is newer by 1 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 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1960 Abarth 700 (63 HP @ 7600 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1960 Abarth 700 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 230 kg more than 1960 Abarth 700.
Because 1960 Abarth 700 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 700. 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:
1960 Abarth 700 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 700 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1960 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 696 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |