1971 Austin 1800 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 38 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 (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 326 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 2009 BMW 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 2009 BMW 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, 2009 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 63 L |
