1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1980 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1980 Lotus Esprit 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 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Lotus Esprit (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lotus Esprit weights approximately 94 kg more than 1954 Austin A 40. 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 | 1980 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 67 L |
