1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1974 NSU 1000
To start off, 1974 NSU 1000 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Austin A 40 (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1974 NSU 1000. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1974 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 40 weights approximately 366 kg more than 1974 NSU 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1974 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Austin | NSU |
| Model | A 40 | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2260 mm |
