1961 Abarth 2400 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 2400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 2400 would be higher. At 2,321 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Abarth 2400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Abarth 2400 (141 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Abarth 2400 should accelerate faster than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 309 kg more than 1961 Abarth 2400.
Because 1961 Abarth 2400 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 1961 Abarth 2400. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1961 Abarth 2400 (196 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1961 Abarth 2400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1961 Abarth 2400 has manual transmission. 1961 Abarth 2400 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 2400 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2400 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2321 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
