1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 33 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 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40.
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 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | A 40 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 36 L |
