1978 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2008 Pontiac Solstice is newer by 30 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 1978 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Because 2008 Pontiac Solstice 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 2008 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2008 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Austin Maxi | 2008 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Maxi | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 49 L |
