1969 Austin Maxi vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 1979 Fiat 126 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,748 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 Austin Maxi (71 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1969 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1969 Austin Maxi weights approximately 415 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 126 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 1979 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 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, 1969 Austin Maxi (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1969 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin Maxi | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 126 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 1850 mm |
