1970 Austin 1800 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 48 more horse power than 1970 Austin 1800. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1970 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 298 kg more than 1970 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Austin 1800, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin 1800 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | 230 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 72 L |
