1980 Austin Maxi vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 18 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (349 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 825 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (530 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 389 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1980 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1980 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
