1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2012 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 51 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (198 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 674 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, 2012 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, 2012 Hyundai Sonata (249 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Austin | Hyundai |
| Model | A 40 | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 198 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 249 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4821 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2794 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
