1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1969 Saab Sonett
To start off, 1969 Saab Sonett 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Saab Sonett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Saab Sonett (64 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 Saab Sonett 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 280 kg more than 1969 Saab Sonett.
Because 1955 Austin A 55 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Saab Sonett, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Saab Sonett (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1969 Saab Sonett 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 Saab Sonett | |
| Make | Austin | Saab |
| Model | A 55 | Sonett |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 775 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2160 mm |
