1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1998 Volvo S80
To start off, 1998 Volvo S80 is newer by 37 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 1998 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volvo S80 weights approximately 800 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, 1998 Volvo S80, 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, 1998 Volvo S80 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Volvo S80 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 | 1998 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 40 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
