1956 Austin A 40 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 45 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 1,898 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (123 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 60 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | A |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1898 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 54 L |
