1955 Austin A 40 vs. 1990 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1990 Opel Kadett is newer by 35 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Opel Kadett (81 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 40.
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, 1990 Opel Kadett, 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, 1990 Opel Kadett (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1990 Opel Kadett 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 | 1990 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
