1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1953 Austin A 40
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 360 kg more than 1953 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 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 1953 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider, 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1953 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | Spider | A 40 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1953 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 34 L |
