1948 Austin 16 vs. 1954 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1954 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1948 Austin 16 (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1948 Austin 16 should accelerate faster than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Austin 16 weights approximately 480 kg more than 1954 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 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 1948 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1954 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:
| 1948 Austin 16 | 1954 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 16 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1954 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2410 mm |
