1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1968 Fiat 500
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1968 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1968 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 485 kg more than 1968 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Fiat 500 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 1968 Fiat 500. 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 (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Fiat 500. (27 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1968 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 500 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 18 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 27 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 67.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 22 L |
