1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1971 Renault 17
To start off, 1971 Renault 17 is newer by 16 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 1,565 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Renault 17 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Renault 17 (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Renault 17 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55.
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, 1971 Renault 17, 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, 1971 Renault 17 (133 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 Renault 17 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 | 1971 Renault 17 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | A 55 | 17 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |
