1978 Austin Maxi vs. 2007 BMW 523
To start off, 2007 BMW 523 is newer by 29 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 523 weights approximately 510 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 2007 BMW 523 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 2007 BMW 523. 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, 2007 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Maxi | 2007 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 523 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 70 L |
