1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2012 Opel Astra
To start off, 2012 Opel Astra is newer by 57 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Opel Astra (138 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Opel Astra weights approximately 223 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, 2012 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, 2012 Opel Astra (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Opel Astra | |
Make | Austin | Opel |
Model | A 55 | Astra |
Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 110 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1278 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4260 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |