1973 Austin Maxi vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 33 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1973 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 388 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK (230 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | SLK |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1368 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
