1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V is newer by 41 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V (139 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz V weights approximately 1149 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz V, 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1996 Mercedes-Benz V | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | V |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 851 kg | 2000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3010 mm |
