1948 Allard J1 vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Allard J1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Allard J1 would be higher. At 3,622 cc (8 cylinders), 1948 Allard J1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1948 Allard J1. (85 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Allard J1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 246 kg more than 1948 Allard J1. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Allard J1 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 1948 Allard J1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Allard J1. (204 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Allard J1.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Allard J1 | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Allard | Volkswagen |
| Model | J1 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3622 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.8 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
