1962 Alpine A 108 vs. 1974 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1974 Austin Maxi is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin Maxi (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1962 Alpine A 108. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1962 Alpine A 108. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Maxi weights approximately 385 kg more than 1962 Alpine A 108. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Alpine A 108. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1974 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Alpine A 108. (58 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1974 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Alpine A 108 | 1974 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Alpine | Austin |
| Model | A 108 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 845 cc | 1485 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 58 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 54.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.4 mm |
| 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 | 595 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 L | 45 L |
