1957 Austin A 55 vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1957 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1957 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 95 kg more than 1957 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Austin A 55 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 1957 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra, 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, 1997 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Austin A 55 | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Astra |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2620 mm |
