1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1978 Cadillac Eldorado
To start off, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is newer by 23 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 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Cadillac Eldorado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (171 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Cadillac Eldorado weights approximately 1285 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.
Because 1955 Austin-Healey 100 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-Healey 100. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado, 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, 1978 Cadillac Eldorado (433 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Cadillac Eldorado will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1978 Cadillac Eldorado | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Cadillac |
| Model | 100 | Eldorado |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 6964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 433 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3210 mm |
