1960 Austin A 55 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1960 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 23 kg more than 1960 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 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 1960 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Austin A 55 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | A |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
