1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 42 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 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (238 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 875 kg more than 1961 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A 55 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
