1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1980 Ford Escort
To start off, 1980 Ford Escort 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin A 55 (51 HP) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Ford Escort. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1980 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 195 kg more than 1980 Ford Escort. 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, 1980 Ford Escort, 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1955 Austin A 55 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1980 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 55 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1116 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2410 mm |
