1957 Austin A 55 vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia is newer by 51 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Skoda Octavia (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1957 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1957 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 240 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2008 Skoda Octavia (149 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Austin | Skoda |
| Model | A 55 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
