1962 Honda S500 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Honda S500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Honda S500 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1962 Honda S500. (38 HP @ 8000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Honda S500.
Because 1962 Honda S500 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 Honda S500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Honda S500. (39 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Honda S500.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Honda S500 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
Model | S500 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1962 | 2007 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 492 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 39 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4410 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |