1959 Austin A 55 vs. 1986 Lancia Thema
To start off, 1986 Lancia Thema is newer by 27 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 2,849 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Lancia Thema is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lancia Thema (150 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lancia Thema should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lancia Thema weights approximately 44 kg more than 1959 Austin A 55. 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, 1986 Lancia Thema, 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, 1986 Lancia Thema (240 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 1986 Lancia Thema 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 | 1986 Lancia Thema | |
| Make | Austin | Lancia |
| Model | A 55 | Thema |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2849 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |
