1958 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 644 kg more than 1958 Austin A 40.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 SLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin A 40. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin A 40 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 35 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 60 L |
