1963 Mitsubishi 500 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1963 Mitsubishi 500 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 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle (34 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1963 Mitsubishi 500. (23 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Mitsubishi 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 270 kg more than 1963 Mitsubishi 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Mitsubishi 500 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 Mitsubishi 500. 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 Mitsubishi 500 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Volkswagen |
| Model | 500 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 594 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 530 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2070 mm | 2410 mm |
