1973 Austin Maxi vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 2,599 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1973 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 540 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | S |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
