1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1989 Vauxhall Nova 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 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Vauxhall Nova (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Vauxhall Nova 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 286 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Nova.
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 Vauxhall Nova, 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 | 1989 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Austin | Vauxhall |
| Model | A 40 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2350 mm |
