1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Holden Astra
To start off, 2005 Holden Astra is newer by 51 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Holden Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Holden Astra (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Holden Astra should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Holden Astra weights approximately 248 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, 2005 Holden Astra, 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, 2005 Holden Astra (173 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2005 Holden Astra 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 | 2005 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Holden |
| Model | A 40 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2620 mm |
