1963 Abarth 1600 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1963 Abarth 1600 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Abarth 1600 (155 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 56 kg more than 1963 Abarth 1600.
Because 1963 Abarth 1600 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 1963 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
1963 Abarth 1600 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 1600 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1963 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 744 kg | 800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2410 mm |