1950 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Fiat Idea
To start off, 2008 Fiat Idea is newer by 58 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 1,247 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Fiat Idea is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Fiat Idea (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Fiat Idea should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Fiat Idea weights approximately 180 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, 2008 Fiat Idea, 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, 2008 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2008 Fiat Idea 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 | 2008 Fiat Idea | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | A 40 | Idea |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 47 L |
