1954 Austin A vs. 2008 BMW M5
To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 370 more horse power than 1954 Austin A. (130 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1954 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A weights approximately 220 kg more than 2008 BMW M5.
Because 2008 BMW M5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1954 Austin A. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 BMW M5 (519 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Austin A. (287 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A | 2008 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A | M5 |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3992 cc | 4999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 500 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 7750 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 519 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1975 kg | 1755 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 70 L |
