1952 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 53 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 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 125 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, 2005 Renault Megane, 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, 2005 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane 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 | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1461 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 | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
