1961 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Hudson Metropolitan would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. (47 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 514 kg more than 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Hudson Metropolitan 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 Hudson Metropolitan. 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 (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. (101 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Hudson Metropolitan. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1961 Hudson Metropolitan has manual transmission. 1961 Hudson Metropolitan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Hudson Metropolitan | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Hudson | Volkswagen |
| Model | Metropolitan | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 819 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2537 mm |
