1978 Austin Marina vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Marina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Marina would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1978 Austin Marina. (59 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Marina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 798 kg more than 1978 Austin Marina. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Austin Marina. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Marina. (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Marina.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Marina | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Marina | 325 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 882 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2770 mm |
