1972 Austin Maxi vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1972 Austin Maxi is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1972 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 605 kg more than 1972 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1971 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Maxi | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Maxi | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 5792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2750 mm |
