1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1953 Ferrari 342 America
To start off, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1953 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1953 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Ferrari 342 America weights approximately 239 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1953 Ferrari 342 America | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ferrari |
| Model | 100 | 342 America |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1953 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 4101 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 105 L |
