1975 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo is newer by 34 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 1,483 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Smart ForTwo (83 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1975 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin Maxi.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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, 2009 Smart ForTwo (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2009 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin Maxi | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Maxi | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 1000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 81.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 2700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 33 L |
