1961 Autobianchi Bianchina vs. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (91 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina. (19 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 662 kg more than 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina 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 Autobianchi Bianchina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen Beetle (202 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina. (35 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Autobianchi Bianchina | 1998 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Autobianchi | Volkswagen |
| Model | Bianchina | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 500 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 19 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 35 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 568 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3230 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1950 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 55 L |
