1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1991 Caterham Super 7
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 11 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Caterham Super 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Caterham Super 7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 470 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. 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, 1991 Caterham Super 7 (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (105 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1991 Caterham Super 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1991 Caterham Super 7 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | Maxi | Super 7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 84 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 36 L |
