1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2011 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 56 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. (89 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 306 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Polo (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2011 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volkswagen |
| Model | 100 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 180 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 | 1157 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2470 mm |
