1971 Austin 3 vs. 2012 Ford S-Max
To start off, 2012 Ford S-Max is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 2,910 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Austin 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford S-Max (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford S-Max weights approximately 253 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford S-Max, 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, 2012 Ford S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2012 Ford S-Max | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | 3 | S-Max |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1743 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
