1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 58 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 278 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, 2013 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. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 55 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1333 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2537 mm |