1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2004 BMW 120
To start off, 2004 BMW 120 is newer by 30 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 1,971 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 120 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 120 weights approximately 405 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 2004 BMW 120 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 2004 BMW 120. 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, 2004 BMW 120 (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2004 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 120 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1971 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 17.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
