1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Saturn L
To start off, 2005 Saturn L is newer by 44 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn L is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn L (182 HP) has 148 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn L should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn L weights approximately 708 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, 2005 Saturn L, 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, 2005 Saturn L (258 Nm) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn L 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 | 2005 Saturn L | |
| Make | Austin | Saturn |
| Model | A 40 | L |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 182 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1468 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 59 L |
