1970 Austin Maxi vs. 1986 Fiat 126
To start off, 1986 Fiat 126 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,483 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1986 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Austin Maxi weights approximately 395 kg more than 1986 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 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, 1970 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1970 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin Maxi | 1986 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 126 |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 651 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1850 mm |
