1996 Audi A3 vs. 1955 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Volkswagen Beetle 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 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle. (89 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Audi A3 | 1955 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Audi | Volkswagen |
Model | A3 | Beetle |
Year Released | 1996 | 1955 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Horse Power | 151 HP | 38 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 89 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 64 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2410 mm |