1948 Austin A 40 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 48 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 7,255 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (583 HP) has 545 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1332 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.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (721 Nm) has 641 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | E |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 7255 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 583 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 721 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 2302 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2600 mm |
