1975 Austin 1800 vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1975 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 209 kg more than 1975 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin 1800 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
