1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1978 Fiat Strada
To start off, 1978 Fiat Strada is newer by 23 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Fiat Strada (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada 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 235 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada.
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, 1978 Fiat Strada, 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, 1955 Austin A 55 (110 Nm) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 1955 Austin A 55 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada. 1978 Fiat Strada has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin A 55 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin A 55 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat Strada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1978 Fiat Strada | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | A 55 | Strada |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 91 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2460 mm |
