1975 Austin 1800 vs. 1969 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 1975 Austin 1800 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Austin 1800 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 Volkswagen 1302 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 1969 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1975 Austin 1800 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1975 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin 1800 | 1969 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | 1302 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
