1964 Austin Princess vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1964 Austin Princess. (119 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Austin Princess weights approximately 840 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2008 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, 1964 Austin Princess (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1964 Austin Princess will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin Princess | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Princess | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 2323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2180 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
