1960 Austin A 55 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1960 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 102 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 T5, 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 T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1122 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
