1949 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 55 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1949 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1949 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 491 kg more than 1949 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1949 Austin A 40. (80 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
