1963 Morris Minor vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1963 Morris Minor. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1963 Morris Minor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 360 kg more than 1963 Morris Minor. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 Morris Minor 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 1963 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Morris Minor | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Morris | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minor | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
