1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2002 Volvo S80
To start off, 2002 Volvo S80 is newer by 47 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 2,520 cc (5 cylinders), 2002 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volvo S80 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volvo S80 weights approximately 370 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, 2002 Volvo S80, 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, 2002 Volvo S80 (285 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2002 Volvo S80 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 | 2002 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 55 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2520 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
