1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1981 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1981 Lancia Beta is newer by 20 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 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Lancia Beta (100 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Lancia Beta should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Lancia Beta weights approximately 276 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, 1981 Lancia Beta, 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, 1981 Lancia Beta (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1981 Lancia Beta 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 | 1981 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Austin | Lancia |
Model | A 40 | Beta |
Year Released | 1961 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 1585 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 71.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1036 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 59 L |