1947 Austin A 40 vs. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1947 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1947 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 (182 HP) has 143 more horse power than 1947 Austin A 40. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1947 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 595 kg more than 1947 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1947 Austin A 40 has manual transmission. 1947 Austin A 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1947 Austin A 40 | 1974 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1947 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 114 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 90 L |
