2003 Audi A8 vs. 1959 Austin A 40
To start off, 2003 Audi A8 is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Audi A8 (217 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 40. (34 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Audi A8 weights approximately 830 kg more than 1959 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A8, 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, 2003 Audi A8 (300 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A8 | 1959 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A8 | A 40 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 62.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2130 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 26 L |
