1961 Austin A vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 48 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 580 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 680 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (780 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 693 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 780 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 97 L |
