1952 Austin A 40 vs. 1978 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1978 Lancia Beta is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Lancia Beta weights approximately 66 kg more than 1952 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Lancia Beta, 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, 1978 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 1978 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1952 Austin A 40 | 1978 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Austin | Lancia |
Model | A 40 | Beta |
Year Released | 1952 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 38 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 80 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 71.5 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1038 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2550 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 59 L |