1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 44 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 251 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 860 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1961 Austin A 55. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A 55 | S |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 88 L |
