1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2006 BMW 320
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 32 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 645 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 2006 BMW 320 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 2006 BMW 320. 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, 2006 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2006 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1835 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
