1952 Austin A 40 vs. 1980 Ford Laser
To start off, 1980 Ford Laser is newer by 28 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 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Austin A 40 weights approximately 210 kg more than 1980 Ford Laser.
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, 1980 Ford Laser, 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, 1980 Ford Laser (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1980 Ford Laser 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 | 1980 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 40 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2370 mm |
