1962 Holden FB Special 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 Holden FB Special. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Holden FB Special would be higher. At 2,262 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Holden FB Special is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (180 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1962 Holden FB Special. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Holden FB Special. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 263 kg more than 1962 Holden FB Special. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Holden FB Special. 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (235 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Holden FB Special. (163 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Holden FB Special.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Holden FB Special | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Holden | Volkswagen |
| Model | FB Special | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2262 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1363 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1710 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2470 mm |
