1959 Austin A 55 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 52 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | SL |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Top Speed | 122 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
