1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 1978 BMW 320
To start off, 1978 BMW 320 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III would be higher. At 2,912 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 493 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III weights approximately 340 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
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:
| 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 1978 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | 320 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 641 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 9000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2570 mm |
