1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2007 Volvo V50
To start off, 2007 Volvo V50 is newer by 52 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volvo V50 weights approximately 574 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, 2007 Volvo V50, 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, 2007 Volvo V50 (231 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Volvo V50 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 | 2007 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volvo |
| Model | 100 | V50 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| 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 | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 60 L |
