1948 Austin A 40 vs. 1972 Toyota Publica
To start off, 1972 Toyota Publica is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Toyota Publica (47 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Toyota Publica should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Austin A 40 weights approximately 286 kg more than 1972 Toyota Publica.
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:
| 1948 Austin A 40 | 1972 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | A 40 | Publica |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2170 mm |
