1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1972 BMW M1
To start off, 1972 BMW M1 is newer by 17 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 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 222 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55.
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, 1972 BMW M1 (177 Nm) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm). This means 1972 BMW M1 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 | 1972 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 55 | M1 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
