1966 Morris Minor vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Morris Minor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Morris Minor would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Morris Minor (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1966 Morris Minor should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 20 kg more than 1966 Morris Minor.
Because 1966 Morris Minor 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 Morris Minor. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Morris Minor. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Morris Minor.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Morris Minor | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Morris | Volkswagen |
| Model | Minor | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1966 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3770 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2190 mm | 2410 mm |
