1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 22 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 46 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1977 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
Model | 100 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 1977 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 87 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2410 mm |