1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 BMW 650
To start off, 2008 BMW 650 is newer by 34 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 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 650 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 650 weights approximately 450 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 2008 BMW 650 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 2008 BMW 650. 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, 2008 BMW 650 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 650 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2008 BMW 650 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 650 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 4799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 360 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 488 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
