1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 45 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 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (215 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 485 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1959 Austin A 55. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | C |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 3197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2970 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 62 L |
