1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1956 Fiat 1400
To start off, 1974 Austin Maxi is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Fiat 1400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Fiat 1400 would be higher. At 1,900 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Fiat 1400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin Maxi (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1956 Fiat 1400. (38 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1956 Fiat 1400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Fiat 1400 weights approximately 205 kg more than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Because 1956 Fiat 1400 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 1956 Fiat 1400. 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, 1956 Fiat 1400 (134 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm). This means 1956 Fiat 1400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1956 Fiat 1400 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 1400 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 20.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2660 mm |
