1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2012 Opel Insignia 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Insignia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Insignia (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Insignia 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, 2012 Opel Insignia, 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 Opel Insignia (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Opel Insignia 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 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2737 mm |
