1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1991 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1991 Pontiac Firebird 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 3,128 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Pontiac Firebird (140 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 426 kg more than 1980 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. 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 Pontiac Firebird (244 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1991 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1991 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Maxi | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 3128 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 59 L |
