1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 30 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 2,445 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (100 HP) has 59 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40.
Because 1956 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 1956 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (217 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1986 Lancia Thema 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 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Austin | Lancia |
| Model | A 40 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2445 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
