1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1968 Sunbeam Rapier
To start off, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is newer by 13 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 1,725 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Sunbeam Rapier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier 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 25 kg more than 1968 Sunbeam Rapier.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1968 Sunbeam Rapier (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1968 Sunbeam Rapier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
1955 Austin A 55 | 1968 Sunbeam Rapier | |
Make | Austin | Sunbeam |
Model | A 55 | Rapier |
Year Released | 1955 | 1968 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1725 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 79 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1030 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |