1961 Austin A 60 vs. 1978 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 60 would be higher. At 1,621 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A 60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Austin A 60 (60 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Austin A 60 should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 60 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 60 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 60. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1961 Austin A 60 (122 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Austin A 60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Austin A 60 | 1978 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 60 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1621 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 60 HP | 43 HP |
Torque | 122 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2410 mm |