1948 Austin 16 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 61 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1948 Austin 16. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin 16.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin 16. (146 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Austin 16.
Compare all specifications:
1948 Austin 16 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | 16 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1948 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 63 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 221 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79.4 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 121 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |