1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1974 Volkswagen SP
To start off, 1974 Volkswagen SP is newer by 19 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen SP is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen SP (64 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen SP 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 165 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen SP.
Let's talk about torque, 1974 Volkswagen SP (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Volkswagen SP 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 | 1974 Volkswagen SP | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | SP |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
