1945 Austin 16 vs. 1960 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1960 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1945 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1945 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1945 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1945 Austin 16 (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1945 Austin 16 should accelerate faster than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1945 Austin 16 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1960 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1945 Austin 16 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 1945 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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:
| 1945 Austin 16 | 1960 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 16 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1945 | 1960 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 42 L |
