1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1984 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1984 Vauxhall Nova is newer by 23 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 991 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Vauxhall Nova is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Vauxhall Nova (44 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Vauxhall Nova should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 40 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1984 Vauxhall Nova.
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, 1984 Vauxhall Nova, 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, both vehicles can yield 68 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1984 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Austin | Vauxhall |
| Model | A 40 | Nova |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2350 mm |
