1955 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 310 kg more than 1955 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin A 40 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 41 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 79 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |