1982 Austin Allegro vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Austin Allegro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Austin Allegro would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 935 kg more than 1982 Austin Allegro.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Austin Allegro, 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 370 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Austin Allegro. (70 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Austin Allegro. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1982 Austin Allegro has manual transmission. 1982 Austin Allegro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Austin Allegro | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Allegro | 540 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 4398 cc |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 800 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
