1951 Austin A vs. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1951 Austin A. (29 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 509 kg more than 1951 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Austin A 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. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A | 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 57 L |
