1959 Austin A 55 vs. 1979 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1979 Opel Kadett is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Austin A 55 (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Austin A 55 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Austin A 55 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1979 Opel Kadett (83 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 1979 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Austin A 55 | 1979 Opel Kadett | |
Make | Austin | Opel |
Model | A 55 | Kadett |
Year Released | 1959 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 54 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 68 Nm | 83 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 61 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 7.8:1 |
Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 142 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 835 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4130 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1570 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 42 L |