1973 Austin Maxi vs. 2011 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2011 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 38 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 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1973 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1973 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 431 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 2011 Mazda RX-8 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 2011 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2011 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Austin Maxi. 2011 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1973 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1973 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Austin Maxi | 2011 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2703 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 64 L |
