1961 Austin A vs. 1972 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1972 Austin Maxi is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 165 kg more than 1972 Austin Maxi.
Because 1961 Austin A 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 1961 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1972 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1972 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | A | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 76.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
