1962 Austin Princess vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1962 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1962 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Austin Princess weights approximately 744 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1962 Austin Princess 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 Princess. 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, 1962 Austin Princess (251 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm). This means 1962 Austin Princess will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin Princess | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Princess | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
