1971 Austin 3 vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 34 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New 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 134 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 3 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
