1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1956 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 1956 Porsche 550 A is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 weights approximately 246 kg more than 1956 Porsche 550 A. 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 | 1956 Porsche 550 A | |
Make | Austin-Healey | Porsche |
Model | 100 | 550 A |
Year Released | 1955 | 1956 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 132 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 7200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 605 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2110 mm |