1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 41 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 2,295 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1240 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz V (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz V 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 | 2002 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | V |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 3010 mm |
