1971 Austin 1800 vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320
To start off, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 (216 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 weights approximately 296 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 (310 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 320 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
