1966 Austin A 40 vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 444 kg more than 1966 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1966 Austin A 40 | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1966 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 47 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 81 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 77.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1206 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 45 L |