1949 Austin A 40 vs. 1996 Mini MK VII
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VII is newer by 47 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 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mini MK VII is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mini MK VII (96 HP @ 6130 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VII 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 235 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VII.
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, 1996 Mini MK VII, 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, 1996 Mini MK VII (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1996 Mini MK VII 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 | 1996 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK VII |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2040 mm |
