1960 Austin A 55 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta (180 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1960 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 318 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin A 55. (111 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
