1962 Abarth 600 vs. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 36 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1962 Abarth 600. (59 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 748 kg more than 1962 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 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, 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Abarth 600. (92 Nm). This means 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Abarth 600 | 1998 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 980 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 583 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
