1961 Fiat 2300 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 Fiat 2300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 2300 would be higher. At 2,480 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1961 Fiat 2300. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Fiat 2300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 84 kg more than 1961 Fiat 2300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Fiat 2300 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 Fiat 2300. 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 2300. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 2300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 2300 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2277 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
