1950 Austin A 40 vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 254 kg more than 1950 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1950 Austin A 40 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 1950 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1950 Austin A 40 | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1950 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 83 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1244 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |