1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1978 BMW 320
To start off, 1978 BMW 320 is newer by 25 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 592 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Austin A 40 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 40 | 1978 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 40 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2570 mm |
