1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Chevrolet Optra
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 50 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Optra (108 HP) has 72 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Optra should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 1625 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, 2011 Chevrolet Optra, 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, 2011 Chevrolet Optra (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Optra 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 | 2011 Chevrolet Optra | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | A 40 | Optra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 2385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
