1975 Austin 1800 vs. 2005 BMW M3
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 1975 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 500 kg more than 1975 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW M3. 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin 1800. (140 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin 1800 | 2005 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | 1800 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 63 L |
