1955 Austin A 55 vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 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, 1997 Rover 400, 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 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 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 | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Austin | Rover |
| Model | A 55 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2560 mm |
