1961 Holden FB Special 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 Holden FB Special. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Holden FB Special would be higher. At 2,262 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Holden FB Special is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1961 Holden FB Special. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Holden FB Special. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 59 kg more than 1961 Holden FB Special. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Holden FB Special 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 Holden FB Special. 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 Holden FB Special (163 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1961 Holden FB Special will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Holden FB Special | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | FB Special | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1159 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
