1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1958 Lotus 16
To start off, 1958 Lotus 16 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Lotus 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 Lotus 16 (238 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1958 Lotus 16 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 505 kg more than 1958 Lotus 16.
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 Lotus 16 | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | A 55 | 16 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1958 |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2260 mm |
