1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1996 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Sharan is newer by 16 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Volkswagen Sharan (113 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 732 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Volkswagen Sharan (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1996 Volkswagen Sharan | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Maxi | Sharan |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
