1963 Abarth 1600 vs. 1980 Austin Maxi
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Abarth 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Abarth 1600 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 Abarth 1600 (155 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 Abarth 1600 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 251 kg more than 1963 Abarth 1600.
Because 1963 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 1963 Abarth 1600. 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, 1963 Abarth 1600 (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1963 Abarth 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Abarth 1600 | 1980 Austin Maxi | |
| Make | Abarth | Austin |
| Model | 1600 | Maxi |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1747 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 95.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 744 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3710 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2100 mm | 2670 mm |
