1962 Austin A 40 vs. 1989 Nissan Micra
To start off, 1989 Nissan Micra is newer by 27 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 988 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Nissan Micra (49 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Nissan Micra should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Austin A 40 weights approximately 95 kg more than 1989 Nissan Micra.
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, 1989 Nissan Micra, 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, 1989 Nissan Micra (73 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1989 Nissan Micra 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 | 1989 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Austin | Nissan |
| Model | A 40 | Micra |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2310 mm |
