1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1303
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is newer by 18 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1303 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen 1303 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 40 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen 1303.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 40 | 1973 Volkswagen 1303 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | 1303 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
