1977 Austin Maxi vs. 2003 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2003 Smart ForTwo 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 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Austin Maxi (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (60 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Austin Maxi weights approximately 165 kg more than 2003 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Smart ForTwo. 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 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart ForTwo. (96 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1977 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Austin Maxi | 2003 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Maxi | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 698 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 | 104 Nm | 96 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 33 L |
