1961 Austin A 55 vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 45 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 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A 55 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 2 (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4350 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 2 weights approximately 40 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, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 2006 Mazda 2 (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 55. (111 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 2 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 | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | A 55 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 1399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4350 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
