1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2004 Volvo S80
To start off, 2004 Volvo S80 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2004 Volvo S80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volvo S80 (167 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volvo S80 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volvo S80 weights approximately 412 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, 2004 Volvo S80, 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, 2004 Volvo S80 (230 Nm) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2004 Volvo S80 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 Volvo S80 | |
| Make | Austin | Volvo |
| Model | A 55 | S80 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1532 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
