1966 Austin A 40 vs. 2006 Volvo V50
To start off, 2006 Volvo V50 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,345 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40.
Because 1966 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 1966 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volvo V50, 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, 2006 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Austin A 40 | 2006 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 40 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2345 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 62 L |
