1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1970 Fiat 124
To start off, 1980 Austin Maxi is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Fiat 124 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) has 13 more horse power than 1970 Fiat 124. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1970 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 54 kg more than 1970 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Fiat 124 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 1970 Fiat 124. 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 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Fiat 124. (87 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1970 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 124 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 38 L |
