1996 Audi A3 vs. 1959 Austin A 55
To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 55. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 55 would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 55. (54 HP @ 4350 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1959 Austin A 55. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 55. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (210 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Austin A 55. (68 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1959 Austin A 55 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A3 | A 55 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4350 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 122 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 45 L |
