1972 Austin Allegro vs. 1997 BMW S3
To start off, 1997 BMW S3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Allegro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Allegro would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 1972 Austin Allegro. (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Allegro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW S3 weights approximately 552 kg more than 1972 Austin Allegro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin Allegro, 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Allegro. (74 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Allegro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Allegro | 1997 BMW S3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Allegro | S3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 816 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
