1974 Austin 1800 vs. 1999 BMW 323
To start off, 1999 BMW 323 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 267 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 1999 BMW 323 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 BMW 323. 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 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 1999 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1457 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 63 L |
