1996 Rover 400 vs. 1959 Rover P4
To start off, 1996 Rover 400 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Rover P4 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Rover 400 (109 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1959 Rover P4. (51 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1959 Rover P4.
Because 1959 Rover P4 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 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Rover 400, 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 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Rover P4. (138 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Rover 400 | 1959 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Rover | Rover |
| Model | 400 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2830 mm |
