1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 35 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 2,461 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volvo 850 weights approximately 733 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, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 222 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 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 | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
Make | Austin | Volvo |
Model | A 40 | 850 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 2461 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 290 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1493 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2670 mm |