1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 787 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volvo |
| Model | Sprite | V50 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 57 L |
