1963 Abarth 595 vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 595. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 595 would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1963 Abarth 595. (27 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Abarth 595. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 350 kg more than 1963 Abarth 595. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Abarth 595 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 595. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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. Let's talk about torque, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Abarth 595. (45 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1979 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Abarth 595.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 595 | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 595 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 27 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 45 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2410 mm |
