1950 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1950 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1950 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 620 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 Opel Signum, 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 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1950 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum 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 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1950 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
