1975 Austin Maxi vs. 1999 BMW 540
To start off, 1999 BMW 540 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1975 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 540 weights approximately 791 kg more than 1975 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 540 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 1999 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 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, 1999 BMW 540 (439 Nm) has 335 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin Maxi | 1999 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 540 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 439 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1771 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
