1974 Austin Maxi vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 23 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 320 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 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | M3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
