1961 Austin A 40 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 633 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 Volkswagen GTI, 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 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 Volkswagen GTI | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | GTI |
Year Released | 1961 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 280 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1393 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4213 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1501 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2578 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |