1961 Austin A vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 45 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 2,501 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 173 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
