1976 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2002 Smart ForTwo is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 2002 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Austin Maxi weights approximately 175 kg more than 2002 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1976 Austin Maxi (105 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Smart ForTwo. (95 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1976 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Austin Maxi | 2002 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Maxi | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 696 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 67 mm |
| 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1820 mm |
