1959 Rover P4 vs. 1998 Rover 400
To start off, 1998 Rover 400 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P4 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Rover 400 (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1959 Rover P4. (51 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P4.
Because 1959 Rover P4 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 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Rover 400, 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, 1998 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P4. (138 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Rover P4 | 1998 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Rover | Rover |
| Model | P4 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2560 mm |
