1954 Austin A 70 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin A 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Austin A 70 (66 HP @ 3700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Austin A 70 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 70 weights approximately 544 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Austin A 70 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 70. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1958 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 70 | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 70 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2200 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1560 mm |
