1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1949 BMW 340
To start off, 1956 Austin A 40 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 BMW 340 (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1949 BMW 340 should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 BMW 340 weights approximately 220 kg more than 1956 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
| 1956 Austin A 40 | 1949 BMW 340 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 40 | 340 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2880 mm |
