1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 would be higher. At 2,584 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 (163 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (150 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 321 kg more than 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600.
Because 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 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 Alfa Romeo 2600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Alfa Romeo 2600 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Volkswagen |
| Model | 2600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2584 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 55 L |
