1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1958 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1958 Ford 12 M is newer by 3 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, 1955 Austin A 55 (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1958 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1958 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:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1958 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 55 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2500 mm |
