1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 43 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40.
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, 1997 Rover 400, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Austin | Rover |
| Model | A 40 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2560 mm |
