1997 Rover 400 vs. 1958 Rover P4
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,636 cc (6 cylinders), 1958 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1958 Rover P4. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1958 Rover P4.
Because 1958 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 1958 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1958 Rover P4 (188 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1958 Rover P4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Rover 400 | 1958 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Rover | Rover |
| Model | 400 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2636 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 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 | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2830 mm |
