1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1989 Donkervoort S8
To start off, 1989 Donkervoort S8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,992 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Donkervoort S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Donkervoort S8 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Donkervoort S8 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 309 kg more than 1989 Donkervoort S8.
Because 1989 Donkervoort S8 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 1989 Donkervoort S8. 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, 1989 Donkervoort S8 (166 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1989 Donkervoort S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1989 Donkervoort S8 | |
| Make | Austin | Donkervoort |
| Model | Maxi | S8 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1110 mm |
