1954 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2011 Opel Meriva 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 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Meriva (118 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Meriva 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, 2011 Opel Meriva, 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 Opel Meriva (175 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Meriva 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 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
