1957 Austin A 55 vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Austin A 55 (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1957 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Austin A 55 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Austin A 55 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 1957 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1957 Austin A 55 (110 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1957 Austin A 55 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Austin A 55 | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 55 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1957 | 1961 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1131 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 77 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |