1957 Austin Princess vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (222 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1957 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Austin Princess weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1957 Austin Princess. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin Princess. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin Princess. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has automatic transmission and 1957 Austin Princess has manual transmission. 1957 Austin Princess will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Austin Princess | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Princess | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 222 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 2160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2890 mm |
