1972 Austin Maxi vs. 1998 Caterham C21
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 26 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Caterham C21 (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1972 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1972 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin Maxi weights approximately 330 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21.
Because 1998 Caterham C21 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 1998 Caterham C21. 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, 1998 Caterham C21 (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1998 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Maxi | 1998 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | Maxi | C21 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2260 mm |
