1961 Austin A vs. 1974 Citroen GS
To start off, 1974 Citroen GS is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Citroen GS (58 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 Citroen GS.
Because 1961 Austin A 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. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Citroen GS, 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, 1974 Citroen GS (88 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1974 Citroen GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1974 Citroen GS | |
| Make | Austin | Citroen |
| Model | A | GS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1222 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 65.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
