1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 49 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 193 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 540 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 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat 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 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 3168 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 68 L |
