1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1968 Abarth 1300 is newer by 9 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 1,280 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Abarth 1300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Abarth 1300 (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Abarth 1300 should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 70 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Because 1968 Abarth 1300 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 1968 Abarth 1300. 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:
1968 Abarth 1300 | 1959 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
Model | 1300 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1968 | 1959 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 670 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1560 mm |