1948 Austin A 40 vs. 2009 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 61 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen Xsara (94 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 345 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2009 Citroen Xsara (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen Xsara 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 | 2009 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | A 40 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
