1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2006 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2006 Opel Vectra is newer by 47 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Vectra (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Vectra weights approximately 240 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, 2006 Opel Vectra, 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, 2006 Opel Vectra (150 Nm) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2006 Opel Vectra 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 | 2006 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
