1974 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 35 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), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (154 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1974 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1974 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 245 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (231 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Austin Maxi | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | C |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 66 L |
