1948 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2008 Opel Meriva is newer by 60 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 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Meriva weights approximately 425 kg more than 1948 Austin A 40.
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, 2008 Opel Meriva, 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, 2008 Opel Meriva (241 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Meriva 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 | 2008 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 53 L |
