1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1955 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1955 Ford 12 M is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1951 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Austin A 40 (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1951 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford 12 M.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 1955 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 40 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2500 mm |
