2008 Audi A3 vs. 1952 Austin A 40
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1952 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1952 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1952 Austin A 40. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 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 1952 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1952 Austin A 40. (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1952 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1952 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | A 40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1952 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 7.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
