1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1961 Wartburg 311
To start off, 1961 Wartburg 311 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 49 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Austin A 40 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1961 Wartburg 311.
Because 1953 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 1953 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Wartburg 311, 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, 1961 Wartburg 311 (98 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Wartburg 311 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
1953 Austin A 40 | 1961 Wartburg 311 | |
Make | Austin | Wartburg |
Model | A 40 | 311 |
Year Released | 1953 | 1961 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1200 cc | 992 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 49 HP | 49 HP |
Torque | 83 Nm | 98 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 78 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 | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 43 L |