1963 Abarth 1600 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Abarth 1600 (155 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 548 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, 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, 1963 Abarth 1600 (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1963 Abarth 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 1600 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1600 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 744 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2520 mm |
