1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1971 BMW 3
To start off, 1971 BMW 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1954 Austin A 40. 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:
1954 Austin A 40 | 1971 BMW 3 | |
Make | Austin | BMW |
Model | A 40 | 3 |
Year Released | 1954 | 1971 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2986 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 41 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 89 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1380 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4740 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2670 mm |