1961 Aston Martin DB2 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Aston Martin DB2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Aston Martin DB2 would be higher. At 2,922 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Aston Martin DB2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1961 Aston Martin DB2. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Aston Martin DB2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 165 kg more than 1961 Aston Martin DB2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Aston Martin DB2 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 Aston Martin DB2. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1961 Aston Martin DB2 (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1961 Aston Martin DB2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Aston Martin DB2 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Aston Martin | Volkswagen |
| Model | DB2 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2922 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 86 L | 55 L |
