1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1970 NSU Ro 80
To start off, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is newer by 15 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 2,390 cc, 1970 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1955 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1970 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1970 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1970 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55. 1970 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin A 55 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin A 55 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1970 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1970 NSU Ro 80 | |
| Make | Austin | NSU |
| Model | A 55 | Ro 80 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2390 cc |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2870 mm |
