1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 28 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 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 410 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 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 61 L |
