1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2008 Lotus Elise is newer by 34 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lotus Elise (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Austin Maxi weights approximately 99 kg more than 2008 Lotus Elise.
Because 2008 Lotus Elise 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 2008 Lotus Elise. 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, 2008 Lotus Elise (168 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2008 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Elise |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| 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 | 881 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 32 L |
