1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1988 Buick LeSabre
To start off, 1988 Buick LeSabre is newer by 27 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 3,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Buick LeSabre is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Buick LeSabre (148 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Buick LeSabre should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Buick LeSabre weights approximately 740 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, 1988 Buick LeSabre, 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, 1988 Buick LeSabre (271 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 Buick LeSabre 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 | 1988 Buick LeSabre | |
| Make | Austin | Buick |
| Model | A 40 | LeSabre |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
