1957 Alpine A 108 vs. 1977 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1977 Austin Maxi is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Austin Maxi (68 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1957 Alpine A 108. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1957 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Austin Maxi weights approximately 430 kg more than 1957 Alpine A 108. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Alpine A 108 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 Alpine A 108. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1977 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Alpine A 108. (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Alpine A 108 | 1977 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Alpine | Austin |
| Model | A 108 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 904 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 550 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2650 mm |
