1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2008 Opel Vectra is newer by 54 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Vectra (277 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Vectra weights approximately 583 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, 2008 Opel Vectra, 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, 2008 Opel Vectra (355 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 271 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Vectra 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 | 2008 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 61 L |
