1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 43 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 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (574 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 538 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 988 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (800 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 732 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 574 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 800 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1748 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 92 L |
