1963 Abarth 700 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 700 would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1963 Abarth 700. (63 HP @ 7600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Abarth 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 761 kg more than 1963 Abarth 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Abarth 700 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 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Abarth 700. (69 Nm @ 5800 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Abarth 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 700 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 700 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 695 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3480 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
