1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan
To start off, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan (283 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 247 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan weights approximately 1286 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 Dodge Grand Caravan, 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 Dodge Grand Caravan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan 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 Dodge Grand Caravan | |
| Make | Austin | Dodge |
| Model | A 40 | Grand Caravan |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 283 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 352 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 2046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5151 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1999 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1725 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 3078 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 76 L |
