1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 24 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 310 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (190 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1800 | CLK |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
