1971 Austin Maxi vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 41 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1971 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin Maxi.
Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin Maxi. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1971 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1971 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin Maxi | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | SL |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 80 L |
