1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1978 Lotus 79
To start off, 1978 Lotus 79 is newer by 23 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 2,992 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Lotus 79 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 443 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 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 440 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
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 | 1978 Lotus 79 | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | 79 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 11000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 590 kg |
