1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1959 Ford Prefect
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Ford Prefect. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Ford Prefect would be higher. At 1,748 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Maxi (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1959 Ford Prefect. (31 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1959 Ford Prefect. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 219 kg more than 1959 Ford Prefect. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Ford Prefect 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 1959 Ford Prefect. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 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, 1980 Austin Maxi (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Ford Prefect. (71 Nm @ 2150 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Ford Prefect.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1959 Ford Prefect | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Maxi | Prefect |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2150 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 92.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 765 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 54 L |
