1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia 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 195 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
