1948 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2012 Toyota Matrix is newer by 64 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2012 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1948 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Matrix 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 | 2012 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | A 40 | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1948 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
