1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1980 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 1,748 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Maxi (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (23 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 516 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi, 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, 1980 Austin Maxi (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (33 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Abarth 500 | 1980 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 500 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 479 cc | 1748 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 23 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 33 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 95.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 468 kg | 984 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3350 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1260 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1220 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 47 L |
