1968 Austin A 60 vs. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Austin A 60. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Austin A 60 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (114 HP) has 54 more horse power than 1968 Austin A 60. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1968 Austin A 60. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 108 kg more than 1968 Austin A 60. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Austin A 60 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 1968 Austin A 60. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen Beetle (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Austin A 60. (122 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Austin A 60.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Austin A 60 | 2009 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 60 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1622 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 114 HP |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
