1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort is newer by 26 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 1,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ford Escort (49 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ford Escort 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 170 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort.
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, 1980 Ford Escort, 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, both vehicles can yield 84 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 40 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 40 L |
