1964 Austin A 40 vs. 2009 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2009 Toyota Prius is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Prius is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Prius (75 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1964 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Prius weights approximately 570 kg more than 1964 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Prius, 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, both vehicles can yield 82 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin A 40 | 2009 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Austin | Toyota |
| Model | A 40 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 82 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 84.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 45 L |
