1971 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 BMW 120
To start off, 2008 BMW 120 is newer by 37 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 120 weights approximately 141 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800.
Because 2008 BMW 120 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 2008 BMW 120. 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, 2008 BMW 120 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 2008 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1440 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
