1974 Austin 1800 vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 328 more horse power than 1974 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin 1800.
Because 2009 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin 1800. (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 92.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 63 L |
