1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1974 Volkswagen SP
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen SP is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen SP. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen SP. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 290 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen SP. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (165 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen SP. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen SP.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1974 Volkswagen SP | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | SP |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
