1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Volvo 440
To start off, 1989 Volvo 440 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 1,721 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volvo 440 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volvo 440 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volvo 440 weights approximately 4 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 Volvo 440, 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 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 40 | 440 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
