1973 Austin Maxi vs. 1970 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1973 Austin Maxi is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Austin Maxi (68 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Austin Maxi weights approximately 5 kg more than 1970 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Volkswagen 1600 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 1970 Volkswagen 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 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, 1970 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1970 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 1970 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxi | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
