1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 49 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), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 224 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 55 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
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 | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 220 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1279 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |