1962 Austin A 40 vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 51 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (298 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 262 more horse power than 1962 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1962 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 780 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.
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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (370 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | SLK |
| Year Released | 1962 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0 : 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4134 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1303 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2430 mm |
