1958 Austin A 40 vs. 2003 Daihatsu Sirion
To start off, 2003 Daihatsu Sirion is newer by 45 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 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Daihatsu Sirion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Daihatsu Sirion (72 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1958 Austin A 40. (35 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Daihatsu Sirion should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Daihatsu Sirion weights approximately 91 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, 2003 Daihatsu Sirion, 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, 2003 Daihatsu Sirion (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Daihatsu Sirion 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 | 2003 Daihatsu Sirion | |
| Make | Austin | Daihatsu |
| Model | A 40 | Sirion |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2350 mm |
