1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 276 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 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | B |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| 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 | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 54 L |
