1962 Abarth 600 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Abarth 600 (59 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Abarth 600 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 237 kg more than 1962 Abarth 600.
Because 1962 Abarth 600 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 1962 Abarth 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1962 Abarth 600 (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1962 Abarth 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Abarth 600 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 600 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1962 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 980 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 92 Nm | 87 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 583 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2410 mm |