1949 Austin A 40 vs. 1961 Lotus Seven
To start off, 1961 Lotus Seven is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,340 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Lotus Seven (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Austin A 40 weights approximately 526 kg more than 1961 Lotus Seven.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Austin A 40 | 1961 Lotus Seven | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Seven |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1340 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 444 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1100 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 29 L |
