1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster 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, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 100 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 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 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 |
