1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Polo (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 606 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 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (316 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Polo 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 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1366 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
