1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2007 BMW 120
To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 33 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), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 160 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 2007 BMW 120 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 2007 BMW 120. 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, 2007 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2007 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 120 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2007 |
| 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 | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
