1963 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. (67 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 650 kg more than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper. (84 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Austin Mini Cooper | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Cooper | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1071 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 55 L |
