1958 Austin A 40 vs. 1999 Renault Megane
To start off, 1999 Renault Megane is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Renault Megane (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1958 Austin A 40. (35 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Renault Megane weights approximately 334 kg more than 1958 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Renault Megane (193 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin A 40 | 1999 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 193 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2590 mm |
