1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 56 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1775 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz A 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | A |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1991 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 | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2570 mm |
