1956 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,662 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1400 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1956 Austin A 40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 381 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1956 Austin A 40 has manual transmission. 1956 Austin A 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | GL |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 4662 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 100 L |
