1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 32 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 322 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.
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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | B |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 69.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1302 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 54 L |
