1959 Austin A 40 vs. 1982 Talbot Samba
To start off, 1982 Talbot Samba is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,219 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Talbot Samba is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Talbot Samba (90 HP) has 56 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Talbot Samba should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Talbot Samba weights approximately 26 kg more than 1959 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Talbot Samba, 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, 1982 Talbot Samba (102 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1982 Talbot Samba will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 40 | 1982 Talbot Samba | |
| Make | Austin | Talbot |
| Model | A 40 | Samba |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1219 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 90 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 786 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 40 L |
