1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220
To start off, 1974 Austin Maxi is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 would be higher. At 2,195 cc (6 cylinders), 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 (83 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 weights approximately 295 kg more than 1974 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 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 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 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, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1955 Mercedes-Benz 220 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | 220 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1955 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2195 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 100 L |
