1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1973 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 is newer by 12 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Matra-Simca M530 weights approximately 175 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1973 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1973 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | A 40 | M530 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1973 |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2570 mm |
