1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1997 Volvo S40
To start off, 1997 Volvo S40 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volvo S40 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volvo S40 weights approximately 235 kg more than 1951 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 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 1951 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volvo S40, 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, 1997 Volvo S40 (143 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1951 Austin A 40 | 1997 Volvo S40 | |
Make | Austin | Volvo |
Model | A 40 | S40 |
Year Released | 1951 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1587 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 83 Nm | 143 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2560 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 68 L |