1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1999 Saturn SC
To start off, 1999 Saturn SC is newer by 44 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 2,660 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Saturn SC (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Saturn SC should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Saturn SC weights approximately 100 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, 1999 Saturn SC, 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, 1999 Saturn SC (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Saturn SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 1999 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1955 Austin-Healey 100 has manual transmission. 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1999 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Saturn |
| Model | 100 | SC |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2610 mm |
