1955 Austin-Healey 100 vs. 1985 Volvo 245
To start off, 1985 Volvo 245 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Austin-Healey 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Austin-Healey 100 would be higher. At 2,658 cc (4 cylinders), 1955 Austin-Healey 100 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (132 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1985 Volvo 245. (96 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 should accelerate faster than 1985 Volvo 245.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1955 Austin-Healey 100 (228 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volvo 245. (157 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1955 Austin-Healey 100 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volvo 245.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Austin-Healey 100 | 1985 Volvo 245 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Volvo |
| Model | 100 | 245 |
| Year Released | 1955 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2658 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 132 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 111.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2660 mm |
