1959 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 49 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan (130 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 589 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 2008 Volkswagen Multivan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Austin A 40. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Multivan will offer significantly more control. 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 Volkswagen Multivan (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Multivan 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Multivan | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Multivan |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1349 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 80 L |
