1972 Austin Maxi vs. 1974 Lotus Elite
To start off, 1974 Lotus Elite is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Lotus Elite is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Lotus Elite (142 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1972 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Lotus Elite weights approximately 80 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 1974 Lotus Elite 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 1974 Lotus Elite. 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, 1974 Lotus Elite (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1974 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Maxi | 1974 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Elite |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.3 mm | 95.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 69.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 67 L |
