1957 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 55 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1957 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 275 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | A |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3500 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 60 L |
