1952 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 59 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (81 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 326 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | A |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1199 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 113 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1590 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2570 mm |
