1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 505 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, 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 (250 Nm) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (228 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 100 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 55 L |
