1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1975 Saab 99
To start off, 1975 Saab 99 is newer by 14 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 1,854 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Saab 99 (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Saab 99 weights approximately 360 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, 1975 Saab 99, 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, 1975 Saab 99 (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1975 Saab 99 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 | 1975 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Austin | Saab |
| Model | A 40 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1854 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
