1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1999 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1999 Skoda Octavia is newer by 38 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Skoda Octavia (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 455 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, 1999 Skoda Octavia, 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, 1999 Skoda Octavia (134 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Skoda Octavia 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 | 1999 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Austin | Skoda |
| Model | A 40 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2520 mm |
