1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1958 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin A 55 (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 255 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 1955 Austin A 55 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 55. 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:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1958 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
