1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1983 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 1983 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 30 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, 1953 Austin A 40 (49 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Austin A 40 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1983 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1953 Austin A 40 (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Polo. (74 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1953 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 40 | 1983 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1043 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 59 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 55 L |
