2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1961 Austin A 40
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (182 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 855 kg more than 1961 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1961 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Austin |
| Model | 159 | A 40 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 64.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
