1961 Austin A vs. 1990 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum is newer by 29 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 15 kg more than 1990 Volkswagen Quantum.
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, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1990 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1990 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1990 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2560 mm |
