1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 109 kg more than 1954 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 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 1954 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm). This means 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1954 Austin A 40 | 1994 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1954 | 1994 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 41 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 165 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |