1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1972 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 1972 Volkswagen K 70 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen K 70.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 100 | K 70 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 45 L |
