1959 Abarth 1600 vs. 1978 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1978 Austin Maxi is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,586 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Abarth 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Abarth 1600 (95 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Austin Maxi weights approximately 20 kg more than 1959 Abarth 1600.
Because 1959 Abarth 1600 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 1959 Abarth 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Abarth 1600 | 1978 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 1600 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2650 mm |
