1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 1,457 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 216 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit.
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 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 | 1980 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
