1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1969 Lotus Europa
To start off, 1969 Lotus Europa is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,470 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Lotus Europa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Lotus Europa (78 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Lotus Europa should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Austin A 40 weights approximately 418 kg more than 1969 Lotus Europa.
Let's talk about torque, 1969 Lotus Europa (103 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1969 Lotus Europa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 40 | 1969 Lotus Europa | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 40 | Europa |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1470 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 612 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1080 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
