1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2009 Kia Optima
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 55 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 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima 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, 2009 Kia Optima, 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, 2009 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima 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 | 2009 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | A 40 | Optima |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 62 L |
