1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1962 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (146 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 420 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1962 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1129 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 40 L |
