1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 2008 Rover 75

To start off, 2008 Rover 75 is newer by 50 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Rover 75 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Rover 75 (257 HP) has 213 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Rover 75 should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Rover 75 weights approximately 751 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, 2008 Rover 75, 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 Rover 75 (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Rover 75 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 2008 Rover 75
Make Austin-Healey Rover
Model Sprite 75
Year Released 1958 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 948 cc 4601 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 44 HP 257 HP
Torque 71 Nm 245 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 8.3:1 9.4:1
Top Speed 124 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 664 kg 1415 kg
Vehicle Length 3500 mm 4800 mm
Vehicle Width 1350 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1270 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2040 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 27 L 65 L