1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer is newer by 41 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer (111 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 5 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.
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, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer (137 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 | 1997 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Austin | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A 40 | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
