1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2004 Panoz Esperante
To start off, 2004 Panoz Esperante is newer by 30 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 4,589 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Panoz Esperante is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Panoz Esperante (420 HP) has 334 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Panoz Esperante should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Panoz Esperante weights approximately 345 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 2004 Panoz Esperante 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 2004 Panoz Esperante. 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, 2004 Panoz Esperante (529 Nm) has 392 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm). This means 2004 Panoz Esperante will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2004 Panoz Esperante | |
| Make | Austin | Panoz |
| Model | 1800 | Esperante |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 4589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 529 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 59 L |
