1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 301 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1954 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1390 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 41 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1331 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2860 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |