1948 Austin A 40 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 58 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (302 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 264 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1580 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1948 Austin A 40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 620 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | GL |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 2550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 100 L |
