1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 709 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin A 55 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin A 55 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1764 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2840 mm |
