1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1978 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Austin Maxi 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 20 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Maxi weights approximately 224 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Golf. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1978 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxi | Golf |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 69.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 45 L |
