1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1988 Lada Niva
To start off, 1988 Lada Niva is newer by 33 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 1,568 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Lada Niva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Lada Niva (81 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Lada Niva weights approximately 95 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 1988 Lada Niva is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Austin A 55. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Lada Niva will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 110 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1988 Lada Niva | |
| Make | Austin | Lada |
| Model | A 55 | Niva |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1568 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2210 mm |
