1951 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 53 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 472 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Jetta (235 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A 40. (80 Nm). This means 2004 Volkswagen Jetta 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
