1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 571 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen New 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1331 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
