1950 Austin A 40 vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 53 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 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Renault Megane (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 246 kg more than 1950 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane 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 | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1212 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
