1973 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 BMW 645
To start off, 2008 BMW 645 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 645 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1973 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 645 weights approximately 625 kg more than 1973 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 645 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 645. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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 645 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin 1800. (141 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin 1800 | 2008 BMW 645 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 645 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
