1955 Austin A 55 vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC 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 Scion tC | |
| Make | Austin | Scion |
| Model | A 55 | tC |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2700 mm |
