1963 Reliant Sabre 4 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,703 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 (70 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 weights approximately 57 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Reliant Sabre 4 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 Reliant Sabre 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 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 Reliant Sabre 4 | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Sabre 4 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1703 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 797 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1560 mm |
