1956 Austin A 90 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 90 would be higher. At 2,639 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Austin A 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 90. (85 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 90. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 30 kg more than 1956 Austin A 90. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Austin A 90 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 1956 Austin A 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 90. (168 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 90. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1956 Austin A 90 has manual transmission. 1956 Austin A 90 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 90 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 90 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2639 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
