1971 Austin Maxi vs. 1966 Fiat 500
To start off, 1971 Austin Maxi is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,483 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Austin Maxi (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1966 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1966 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin Maxi weights approximately 440 kg more than 1966 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Fiat 500 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 1966 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 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, 1971 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1971 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin Maxi | 1966 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 500 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 22 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 36 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 38 L |
