1959 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Renault Megane
To start off, 2005 Renault Megane is newer by 46 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 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Renault Megane (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Renault Megane should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Renault Megane weights approximately 490 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, 2005 Renault Megane, 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, 2005 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2005 Renault Megane 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 | 2005 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | Megane |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1250 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 60 L |
