1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-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, both vehicles can yield 89 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 303 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, 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 (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
Model | 100 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1896 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Torque | 144 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1248 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 55 L |