1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1980 Ferrari 312
To start off, 1980 Ferrari 312 is newer by 25 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 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1980 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Ferrari 312 (508 HP @ 12300 RPM) has 457 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Ferrari 312 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 445 kg more than 1980 Ferrari 312.
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 | 1980 Ferrari 312 | |
| Make | Austin | Ferrari |
| Model | A 55 | 312 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 508 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 12300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 2130 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1030 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
