1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 57 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz R is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz R (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (144 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 2012 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 100 | R |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2660 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 5156 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1958 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1661 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 3216 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 109 L | 80 L |
