1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1986 BMW 325
To start off, 1986 BMW 325 is newer by 32 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1954 Austin A 40. (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 134 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 | 1986 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A 40 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 2693 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1026 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
