1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1983 Ferrari 308
To start off, 1983 Ferrari 308 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 2,925 cc (8 cylinders), 1983 Ferrari 308 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ferrari 308 (230 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ferrari 308 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ferrari 308 weights approximately 316 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Ferrari 308 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 Ferrari 308. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1983 Ferrari 308 (255 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Ferrari 308 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1983 Ferrari 308 | |
| Make | Austin | Ferrari |
| Model | 1800 | 308 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2925 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1506 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
