1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2004 Opel Astra
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 49 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 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (100 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 295 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, 2004 Opel Astra, 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, 2004 Opel Astra (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra 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 | 2004 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
