1964 Austin Princess vs. 1956 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1964 Austin Princess is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin Princess (119 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin Princess should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Austin Princess weights approximately 1380 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Austin Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1956 Volkswagen 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin Princess | 1956 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Princess | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 42 L |
