1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1975 Saab 99
To start off, 1975 Saab 99 is newer by 20 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Saab 99 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Saab 99 (95 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Saab 99 weights approximately 90 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, 1975 Saab 99, 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, 1975 Saab 99 (162 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1975 Saab 99 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 | 1975 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Austin | Saab |
| Model | A 55 | 99 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2480 mm |
