2008 Audi A3 vs. 1953 Austin A 40
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 55 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1953 Austin A 40. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1953 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 495 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, 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 1953 Austin A 40. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1953 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1953 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | A 40 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1953 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 34 L |
