1962 Holden FB Special vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 44 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1962 Holden FB Special. (64 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Holden FB Special. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 218 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Holden FB Special. (163 Nm @ 1400 RPM). This means 2006 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 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
Make Holden Volkswagen
Model FB Special New Beetle
Year Released 1962 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2262 cc 2501 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 64 HP 150 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 163 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 1400 RPM 3750 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1100 kg 1318 kg
Vehicle Length 4620 mm 4100 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1710 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2510 mm