1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1979 Seat 131
To start off, 1979 Seat 131 is newer by 25 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Seat 131 (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Seat 131 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 40 weights approximately 25 kg more than 1979 Seat 131.
Because 1954 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 1954 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Seat 131, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1979 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Seat |
| Model | A 40 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2500 mm |
