1959 Austin A 55 vs. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 38 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (240 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 494 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix 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 | 1997 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | A 55 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 96.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 202 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1614 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |
