1957 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Optra (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1957 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 125 kg more than 1957 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Optra, 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 Chevrolet Optra (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Austin A 40 | 2008 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 40 | Optra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
