1960 Austin A 55 vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 52 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1960 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 271 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI 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 | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | GTI |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
