1973 Austin Maxi vs. 1971 Matra-Simca M530
To start off, 1973 Austin Maxi is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Matra-Simca M530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Matra-Simca M530 would be higher. At 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Matra-Simca M530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Matra-Simca M530 (71 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Matra-Simca M530 should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Austin Maxi weights approximately 45 kg more than 1971 Matra-Simca M530.
Because 1971 Matra-Simca M530 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 Matra-Simca M530. 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, 1971 Matra-Simca M530 (128 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1971 Matra-Simca M530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 1971 Matra-Simca M530 | |
| Make | Austin | Matra-Simca |
| Model | Maxi | M530 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
