1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 (180 HP) has 139 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 40.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 (258 Nm) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 40. (79 Nm). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 40 | 1970 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | 280 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 180 HP |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
