1954 Morris Minor vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1954 Morris Minor. (30 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1954 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 443 kg more than 1954 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 Morris Minor 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 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Morris Minor. (54 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Morris Minor | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Morris | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minor | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 801 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 3010 mm |
