1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1974 Austin Maxi is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 630 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 1973 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 85 L |
