1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 100 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (161 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 58 L |
