1998 Rover 420 vs. 1957 Rover P4
To start off, 1998 Rover 420 is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Rover P4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Rover P4 would be higher. At 2,230 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Rover P4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Rover 420 (87 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1957 Rover P4. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Rover 420 should accelerate faster than 1957 Rover P4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Rover P4 weights approximately 211 kg more than 1998 Rover 420.
Because 1957 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 1957 Rover P4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Rover 420, 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, 1998 Rover 420 (184 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Rover P4. (153 Nm). This means 1998 Rover 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Rover P4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Rover 420 | 1957 Rover P4 | |
| Make | Rover | Rover |
| Model | 420 | P4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1992 cc | 2230 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1189 kg | 1400 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2830 mm |
