1956 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Renault Megane
To start off, 2004 Renault Megane is newer by 48 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 1,461 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Megane (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Megane 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, 2004 Renault Megane, 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, 2004 Renault Megane (127 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Megane 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 | 2004 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
