1962 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 471 kg more than 1962 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin A 40 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
