1968 Abarth 1300 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1968 Abarth 1300. (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Abarth 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 494 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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Abarth 1300. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Abarth | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1300 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1280 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 161 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 670 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 55 L |
