1949 Austin A 40 vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is newer by 21 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (49 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin A 40.
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 | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
