1956 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Kia Spectra
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra is newer by 52 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 462 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, 2008 Kia Spectra, 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, 2008 Kia Spectra (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra 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 | 2008 Kia Spectra | |
| Make | Austin | Kia |
| Model | A 40 | Spectra |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1975 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 53 L |
