1951 Austin A 40 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 323 kg more than 1951 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1951 Austin A 40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (305 Nm) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A 40. (80 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1293 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
