1959 Austin A 40 vs. 1988 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1988 Ford Fiesta is newer by 29 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 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Ford Fiesta (44 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 8 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, 1988 Ford Fiesta, 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, both vehicles can yield 68 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 40 | 1988 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 40 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2300 mm |
