1981 Austin Marina vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1981 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 480 kg more than 1981 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Austin Marina 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 1981 Austin Marina. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Marina. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle has automatic transmission and 1981 Austin Marina has manual transmission. 1981 Austin Marina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Austin Marina | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | Marina | Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2013 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 102 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2537 mm |