1948 Austin A 40 vs. 1987 Buick Electra

To start off, 1987 Buick Electra is newer by 39 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Buick Electra (139 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Buick Electra weights approximately 510 kg more than 1948 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1948 Austin A 40 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 1948 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Buick Electra, 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, 1987 Buick Electra (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1987 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1948 Austin A 40.

Compare all specifications:

1948 Austin A 40 1987 Buick Electra
Make Austin Buick
Model A 40 Electra
Year Released 1948 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1200 cc 3791 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 38 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 4300 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 80 Nm 271 Nm
Torque RPM 2300 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 65.5 mm 96.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 89 mm 86.4 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 970 kg 1480 kg
Vehicle Length 3890 mm 4990 mm
Vehicle Width 1560 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1620 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2360 mm 2820 mm