1958 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 50 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 1958 Austin A 40. (35 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin A 40.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1958 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 (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 462 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin A 40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL has automatic transmission and 1958 Austin A 40 has manual transmission. 1958 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:
| 1958 Austin A 40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | GL |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 100 L |
