1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is newer by 40 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 1,689 cc, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart weights approximately 715 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart (185 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz Smart | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | Smart |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 88 L |
