1947 Austin A 40 vs. 1979 Datsun 280
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 32 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 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1947 Austin A 40. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1947 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 307 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1947 Austin A 40 | 1979 Datsun 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Datsun |
| Model | A 40 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1947 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2751 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Top Speed | 114 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1272 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2530 mm |
