1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2006 Opel Astra
To start off, 2006 Opel Astra is newer by 51 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), 2006 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Astra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Astra weights approximately 210 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Astra (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55. 2006 Opel Astra 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. 2006 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 2006 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2006 |
| 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 | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
