1949 Austin A 40 vs. 1986 Holden Astra
To start off, 1986 Holden Astra is newer by 37 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Holden Astra (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Astra 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 75 kg more than 1986 Holden Astra.
Because 1949 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 1949 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Holden Astra, 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, 1986 Holden Astra (124 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1949 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Austin A 40 | 1986 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Holden |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2420 mm |
