1959 Austin A 55 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 86 kg more than 1959 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Austin A 55 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 55 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 148 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |