1953 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 494 kg more than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 Austin-Healey 100 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 1953 Austin-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin-Healey 100 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 100 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 948 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
