1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 57 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 295 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (84 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | A |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1198 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 60 L |
