1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 48 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (250 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 359 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (311 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata 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 | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Austin | Hyundai |
| Model | A 40 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| 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 | 1119 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 67 L |
