1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1200 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (830 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 726 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1974 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1974 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2008 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | S |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 510 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 830 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3170 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 90 L |
