1961 Abarth 2400 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 51 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 2400. (141 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 2400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 290 kg more than 1961 Abarth 2400. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 2400. (196 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 2400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 2400 | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2400 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2321 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4650 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
