1960 Abarth 850 vs. 1980 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Abarth 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Abarth 850 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1960 Abarth 850. (51 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1960 Abarth 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 425 kg more than 1960 Abarth 850. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1960 Abarth 850 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 1960 Abarth 850. 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 (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Abarth 850. (70 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Abarth 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Abarth 850 | 1980 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 850 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 850 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69 mm | 95.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 570 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3600 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1360 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 47 L |
