1966 Austin A 40 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 42 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1966 Austin A 40. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1966 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 543 kg more than 1966 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Austin A 40. (81 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 40 | A |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 762 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 29 L | 54 L |
