1972 Austin Maxi vs. 1959 Fiat 600
To start off, 1972 Austin Maxi is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Fiat 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Fiat 600 would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1959 Fiat 600. (20 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1959 Fiat 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin Maxi weights approximately 230 kg more than 1959 Fiat 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Fiat 600 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 1959 Fiat 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 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, 1972 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Fiat 600. (40 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Fiat 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Maxi | 1959 Fiat 600 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 600 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 633 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 20 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 40 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 38 L |
