1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 41 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 2,324 cc (5 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1996 Volkswagen Passat (210 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm). This means 1996 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
