1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans
To start off, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans (84 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 645 kg more than 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans.
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:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1957 Lotus XI Le Mans | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 55 | XI Le Mans |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1096 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2240 mm |
