1976 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 BMW M3
To start off, 2008 BMW M3 is newer by 32 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 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 271 more horse power than 1976 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1976 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 590 kg more than 1976 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW M3 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 BMW M3. 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, 2008 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Austin Maxi. (105 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Austin Maxi | 2008 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | M3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 339 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
