1961 Austin A 55 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55.
Because 1961 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 1961 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323, 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
1961 Austin A 55 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Austin | Mazda |
Model | A 55 | 323 |
Year Released | 1961 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 110 HP |
Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 111 Nm | 126 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2510 mm |