1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Ford Laser
To start off, 1989 Ford Laser is newer by 35 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 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Laser (66 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Laser 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 226 kg more than 1989 Ford Laser.
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, 1989 Ford Laser, 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. 1989 Ford Laser has automatic transmission and 1954 Austin A 40 has manual transmission. 1954 Austin A 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Ford Laser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1989 Ford Laser | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 40 | Laser |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
