1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1997 BMW M3
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 17 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 316 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 1997 BMW M3 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 1997 BMW M3. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1997 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | M3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 3201 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
