1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Austin A 55 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Polo.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
