1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1999 Alpina B 12
To start off, 1999 Alpina B 12 is newer by 25 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Alpina B 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Alpina B 12 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1974 Austin 1800.
Because 1999 Alpina B 12 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 1999 Alpina B 12. 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, 1999 Alpina B 12 (469 Nm) has 332 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm). This means 1999 Alpina B 12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1999 Alpina B 12 | |
| Make | Austin | Alpina |
| Model | 1800 | B 12 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 469 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
