1971 Austin 3 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 40 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, 1971 Austin 3 (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin 3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen 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, 2011 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, 1971 Austin 3 (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1971 Austin 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Austin 3 | 2011 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | 3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 218 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |