1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 45 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 542 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B 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 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | B |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
