1966 Austin A 40 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1966 Austin A 40 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Austin A 40 (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (34 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 38 kg more than 1966 Austin A 40.
Because 1966 Austin A 40 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 1966 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1955 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:
| 1966 Austin A 40 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2410 mm |
