1961 Austin A vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 60 kg more than 1961 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Austin A 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. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Austin A | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A | Beetle |
Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 87 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 77.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |