1961 Austin A 55 vs. 1997 Oldsmobile SS
To start off, 1997 Oldsmobile SS is newer by 36 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 3,789 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Oldsmobile SS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (202 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Oldsmobile SS 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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS, 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, 1997 Oldsmobile SS (318 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 1997 Oldsmobile SS 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 | 1997 Oldsmobile SS | |
| Make | Austin | Oldsmobile |
| Model | A 55 | SS |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 318 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1900 mm |
