1948 Austin A 70 vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin A 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin A 70 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 197 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 70. (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 98 kg more than 1948 Austin A 70. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Austin A 70 | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 70 | S3 |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 134 km/hour | 258 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2710 mm |
