1953 Austin A 40 vs. 2001 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2001 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 48 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (179 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 745 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis, 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, 2001 Renault Vel Satis (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Renault Vel Satis 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 | 2001 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1953 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 80 L |
