1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia is newer by 47 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Skoda Octavia (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 590 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Austin | Skoda |
| Model | A 40 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
