1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2001 Opel Meriva
To start off, 2001 Opel Meriva 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Meriva is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Meriva (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Meriva should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Meriva weights approximately 320 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, 2001 Opel Meriva, 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 Opel Meriva (151 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Meriva 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 Opel Meriva | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Meriva |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2640 mm |
