1961 Austin A vs. 1998 Mitsubishi SST
To start off, 1998 Mitsubishi SST is newer by 37 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi SST is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi SST should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi SST weights approximately 125 kg more than 1961 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi SST (296 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi SST will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1998 Mitsubishi SST | |
| Make | Austin | Mitsubishi |
| Model | A | SST |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 296 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2570 mm |
