1962 Austin A 40 vs. 1971 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1971 Peugeot 304 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,288 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Peugeot 304 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Peugeot 304 (64 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304 should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Peugeot 304 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1962 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Peugeot 304, 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, 1971 Peugeot 304 (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Peugeot 304 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Austin A 40 | 1971 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Austin | Peugeot |
| Model | A 40 | 304 |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 42 L |
