1986 AC Ace vs. 1955 Austin-Healey 100
To start off, 1986 AC Ace is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 AC Ace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 AC Ace (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. (132 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 AC Ace weights approximately 56 kg more than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 AC Ace is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 AC Ace 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 AC Ace. (214 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 AC Ace.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 AC Ace | 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | |
| Make | AC | Austin-Healey |
| Model | Ace | 100 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 87.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 111.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 907 kg | 851 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 109 L |
