1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1983 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 1983 Suzuki Alto is newer by 28 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 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin A 40 (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1983 Suzuki Alto. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1983 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 40 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1983 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Suzuki Alto, 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, 1955 Austin A 40 (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 40 | 1983 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Austin | Suzuki |
| Model | A 40 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2160 mm |
