1973 Austin Maxi vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350
To start off, 1973 Austin Maxi is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 would be higher. At 3,499 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 (200 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1973 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 weights approximately 568 kg more than 1973 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 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 Mercedes-Benz 350. 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 Mercedes-Benz 350 (286 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 1971 Mercedes-Benz 350 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | 350 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 3499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 286 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 65.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2470 mm |
