1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1955 Austin A 55
To start off, 1974 Austin 1800 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin 1800 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1955 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 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 1955 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Austin 1800, 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, 1974 Austin 1800 (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1955 Austin A 55 | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | 1800 | A 55 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2530 mm |
