1962 Austin A 40 vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 19 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 1,455 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (62 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 50 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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
Model | A 40 | Rabbit |
Year Released | 1962 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 948 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 36 HP | 62 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 104 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2410 mm |