1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2009 Volvo S40
To start off, 2009 Volvo S40 is newer by 54 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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo S40 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55.
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, 2009 Volvo S40, 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, 2009 Volvo S40 (241 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55. 2009 Volvo S40 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. 2009 Volvo S40 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin A 55 | 2009 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 55 | S40 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
