1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1977 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III 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 103 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 360 kg more than 1977 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, 1977 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. Let's talk about torque, 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III (166 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle. (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1977 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
