1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta

To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 28 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 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Fiesta (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 140 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1989 Ford Fiesta (132 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Fiesta 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 1989 Ford Fiesta
Make Austin Ford
Model A 40 Fiesta
Year Released 1961 1989
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 948 cc 1753 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 36 HP 76 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4800 RPM
Torque 68 Nm 132 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Diesel
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 760 kg 900 kg
Vehicle Length 3670 mm 3750 mm
Vehicle Width 1520 mm 1610 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2220 mm 2450 mm