1959 Austin A 40 vs. 2007 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2007 Citroen Xsara is newer by 48 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Citroen Xsara (108 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 477 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2007 Citroen Xsara (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Citroen Xsara 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 | 2007 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | A 40 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 78.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1237 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 54 L |
