1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1959 Ford 12 M
To start off, 1959 Ford 12 M is newer by 4 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 1,497 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Ford 12 M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Ford 12 M (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Ford 12 M should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55.
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 | 1959 Ford 12 M | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 55 | 12 M |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
