1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 562 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Volkswagen Sharan (265 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2008 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 70 L |
