1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 48 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 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 5 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, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka 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 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A 55 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2460 mm |
