1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1976 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1976 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (75 HP) has 26 more horse power than 1956 Austin A 40. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Austin A 40 weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1956 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 1956 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1976 Volkswagen Golf (119 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin A 40. (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1976 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 40 | 1976 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 40 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 119 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
