1961 Austin A vs. 2008 BMW 118
To start off, 2008 BMW 118 is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 118 (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 118 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1961 Austin A. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 BMW 118 (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 2008 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | A | 118 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
