1997 Audi A4 vs. 1955 Austin A 55
To start off, 1997 Audi A4 is newer by 42 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Audi A4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Audi A4 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1955 Austin A 55. (51 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1955 Austin A 55. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A4 weights approximately 385 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, 1997 Audi A4, 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, 1997 Audi A4 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Austin A 55. (110 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Austin A 55.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A4 | 1955 Austin A 55 | |
| Make | Audi | Austin |
| Model | A4 | A 55 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2530 mm |
