1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Opel Vectra (56 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 65 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 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, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1955 Austin A 55 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
