1956 Austin Princess vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin Princess. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin Princess would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Austin Princess is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1956 Austin Princess. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1956 Austin Princess. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Austin Princess weights approximately 759 kg more than 2003 Volvo V50.
Because 1956 Austin Princess 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 1956 Austin Princess. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Volvo V50 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Austin Princess. (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Austin Princess.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin Princess | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | Princess | V50 |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 2524 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2184 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5470 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3360 mm | 2720 mm |
