1954 Austin A vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 1996 Volvo 850 is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A would be higher. At 3,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volvo 850 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1954 Austin A. (130 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A weights approximately 518 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850.
Because 1954 Austin A 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 1954 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Volvo 850, 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, 1996 Volvo 850 (290 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A. (287 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1996 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A | 850 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 2461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2670 mm |
