1960 Austin 7 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Austin 7 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 381 more horse power than 1960 Austin 7. (33 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1960 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 1045 kg more than 1960 Austin 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 340 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Austin 7. (60 Nm). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Austin 7 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 7 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.9 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 26 L | 63 L |
