1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Holden Apollo

To start off, 1989 Holden Apollo 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Apollo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Holden Apollo (118 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Holden Apollo should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Holden Apollo weights approximately 179 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.

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 Holden Apollo, 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 Holden Apollo 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 Holden Apollo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1954 Austin A 40 1989 Holden Apollo
Make Austin Holden
Model A 40 Apollo
Year Released 1954 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1200 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 41 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque RPM 2400 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1026 kg 1205 kg
Vehicle Length 4130 mm 4510 mm
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1570 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2530 mm 2610 mm