1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 54 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 18 more horse power than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 2400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 379 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, 2009 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 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Volkswagen Beetle. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
Model | 100 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 132 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1230 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 55 L |