1961 Austin 7 vs. 1996 BMW 540
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin 7 would be higher. At 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 249 more horse power than 1961 Austin 7. (33 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 1235 kg more than 1961 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin 7. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin 7 | 1996 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 7 | 540 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 70 L |
