1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2005 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2005 Opel Vectra 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Vectra (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Vectra weights approximately 350 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, 2005 Opel Vectra, 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, 2005 Opel Vectra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | A 55 | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1510 mm |
