1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III vs. 2008 BMW 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 44 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, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (148 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 310 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. 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 323 (230 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III. (225 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey 3000 Mk III | 2008 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | BMW |
| Model | 3000 Mk III | 323 |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2912 cc | 2494 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 176 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 195 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |
