1966 Austin A 90 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin A 90. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin A 90 would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Austin A 90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 90. (120 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 90.
Because 1966 Austin A 90 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 90. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 90. (222 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin A 90.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Austin A 90 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 90 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
