1955 Morris Minor vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1955 Morris Minor. (30 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1955 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 473 kg more than 1955 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Morris Minor 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 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Morris Minor. (55 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Morris Minor | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Morris | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minor | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 30 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 55 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 55 L |
