1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2009 BMW 125
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 35 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 335 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 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. 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, 2009 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin 1800 | 2009 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 53 L |
