1977 Austin Maxi vs. 1966 Simca Ariane
To start off, 1977 Austin Maxi is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Simca Ariane. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Simca Ariane would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1966 Simca Ariane. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1966 Simca Ariane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Simca Ariane weights approximately 120 kg more than 1977 Austin Maxi.
Because 1966 Simca Ariane 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 1966 Simca Ariane. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 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, 1977 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Simca Ariane. (90 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1977 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Simca Ariane.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Maxi | 1966 Simca Ariane | |
| Make | Austin | Simca |
| Model | Maxi | Ariane |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 60 L |
