1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda 323 is newer by 42 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), 2003 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 323 (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 323 weights approximately 400 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, 2003 Mazda 323, 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, 2003 Mazda 323 (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 323 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 | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | A 40 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
