1950 Austin A 40 vs. 1986 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1986 Opel Kadett is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1950 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1950 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Opel Kadett (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40.
Because 1950 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 1950 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Opel Kadett, 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 Opel Kadett (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1986 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1950 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1950 Austin A 40 | 1986 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1950 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1390 mm |
