1962 Austin A 40 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 39 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 910 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, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 2001 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum 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 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 40 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
