1962 Simca 1000 vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Simca 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Simca 1000 would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP) has 110 more horse power than 1962 Simca 1000. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Simca 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 363 kg more than 1962 Simca 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Simca 1000 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 Simca 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Simca 1000. (64 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Simca 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Simca 1000 | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1000 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 944 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 149 HP |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 822 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
