1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1982 Renault 4
To start off, 1982 Renault 4 is newer by 21 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 956 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Renault 4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 34 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 40 weights approximately 65 kg more than 1982 Renault 4.
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, 1982 Renault 4, 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, 1961 Austin A 40 (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1961 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1982 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 40 | 4 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 62 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2410 mm |
