1971 Austin Maxi vs. 1977 Mazda 121
To start off, 1977 Mazda 121 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Mazda 121 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mazda 121 (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1971 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mazda 121 should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Mazda 121 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1971 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda 121 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 1977 Mazda 121. 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, 1977 Mazda 121 (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1977 Mazda 121 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin Maxi | 1977 Mazda 121 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | 121 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
