1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1963 Citroen DS
To start off, 1963 Citroen DS is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,911 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Citroen DS (82 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1963 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Citroen DS weights approximately 560 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Citroen DS, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1963 Citroen DS | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | A 40 | DS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1911 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 3140 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
