1977 Austin Maxi vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 26 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1977 Austin Maxi. (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1977 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 50 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.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Maxi | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
