1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1973 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1974 Austin Maxi is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Austin Maxi (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Maxi weights approximately 190 kg more than 1973 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Opel Kadett 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 Opel Kadett. 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, 1974 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1974 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1973 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Maxi | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 43 L |
