1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,283 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 60 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 40 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 1961 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1976 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Austin A 40 | 1976 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 1283 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2410 mm |