2008 Alpina B7 vs. 1971 Austin 1800
To start off, 2008 Alpina B7 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 407 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alpina B7 weights approximately 766 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Alpina B7 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 Alpina B7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 2008 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 560 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Alpina B7 | 1971 Austin 1800 | |
| Make | Alpina | Austin |
| Model | B7 | 1800 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1960 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 49 L |
