1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1969 MG MGB
To start off, 1969 MG MGB is newer by 14 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 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 MG MGB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 MG MGB (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 MG MGB 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 175 kg more than 1969 MG MGB.
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, 1969 MG MGB (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 MG MGB 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 | 1969 MG MGB | |
| Make | Austin | MG |
| Model | A 55 | MGB |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2320 mm |
