1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 1996 Volvo V40 is newer by 42 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 1,946 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volvo V40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo V40 (138 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo V40 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo V40 weights approximately 204 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, 1996 Volvo V40, 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 | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 40 | V40 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
