1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1979 BMW 320
To start off, 1979 BMW 320 is newer by 24 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 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 590 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 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 215 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
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 | 1979 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 55 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
