1965 Austin A 40 vs. 1979 Seat 131
To start off, 1979 Seat 131 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Seat 131 (132 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1965 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Seat 131 should accelerate faster than 1965 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Seat 131 weights approximately 245 kg more than 1965 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Seat 131, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Austin A 40 | 1979 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Austin | Seat |
| Model | A 40 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2500 mm |
