1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1971 Saab 99 is newer by 18 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 1,853 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Saab 99 (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Saab 99 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1953 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1971 Saab 99, 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, 1971 Saab 99 (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 Saab 99 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 | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Austin | Saab |
| Model | A 40 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
