1971 Austin 3 vs. 2000 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 197 kg more than 2000 Volkswagen Beetle.
Because 2000 Volkswagen Beetle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 Austin 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2000 Volkswagen Beetle (305 Nm) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm). This means 2000 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2000 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1293 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
