1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Abarth 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Abarth 1300 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (124 HP @ 7200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 640 kg more than 1968 Abarth 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (131 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Abarth 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Abarth 1300 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3560 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
