1977 Austin Maxi vs. 1992 Lotus Elan
To start off, 1992 Lotus Elan is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1977 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1977 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Lotus Elan weights approximately 40 kg more than 1977 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1992 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1992 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Maxi | 1992 Lotus Elan | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Elan |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2260 mm |
