1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 44 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 110 kg more than 1955 Austin A 55. 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, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin A 55 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 55 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1786 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1165 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2860 mm |