1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is newer by 42 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 3,400 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile Alero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (170 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero weights approximately 505 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile Alero (271 Nm) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm). This means 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin A 55 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin A 55 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Oldsmobile Alero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 1997 Oldsmobile Alero | |
| Make | Austin | Oldsmobile |
| Model | A 55 | Alero |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 3400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
