1972 Austin 1800 vs. 1983 BMW 316
To start off, 1983 BMW 316 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 316 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1972 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin 1800 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1983 BMW 316.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, both vehicles can yield 140 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin 1800 | 1983 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 316 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 1765 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
