1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 46 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (80 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin A 55 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (131 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | A |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2600 mm |
