1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1994 Volvo 850
To start off, 1994 Volvo 850 is newer by 39 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 2,319 cc (5 cylinders), 1994 Volvo 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Volvo 850 (240 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 189 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Volvo 850 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55.
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, 1994 Volvo 850, 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, 1994 Volvo 850 (407 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1994 Volvo 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1994 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 55 | 850 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2319 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 407 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
