1978 Austin Maxi vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1979 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Austin Maxi (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Austin Maxi weights approximately 160 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. 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, 1978 Austin Maxi (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Maxi | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxi | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
