1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2003 Ford Model U
To start off, 2003 Ford Model U is newer by 48 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, 2003 Ford Model U (149 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Model U should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Because 2003 Ford Model U is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Model U will offer significantly more control. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Model U. (213 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Model U. 2003 Ford Model U 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. 2003 Ford Model U will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2003 Ford Model U | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Model U |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 213 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1660 mm |
