1978 Austin Maxi vs. 2001 BMW 320
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 23 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 676 kg more than 1978 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 2001 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Maxi | 2001 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 320 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
