1972 Austin 1800 vs. 2010 BMW 323
To start off, 2010 BMW 323 is newer by 38 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1972 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin 1800.
Because 2010 BMW 323 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 2010 BMW 323. 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, 2010 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin 1800 | 2010 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
