1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2011 Peugeot 408
To start off, 2011 Peugeot 408 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 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Peugeot 408 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Peugeot 408 (110 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Peugeot 408 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40.
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 Peugeot 408, 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 Peugeot 408 (147 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Peugeot 408 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 Peugeot 408 | |
| Make | Austin | Peugeot |
| Model | A 40 | 408 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1815 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1525 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2710 mm |
