1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 21 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 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z3 (229 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 410 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 2001 BMW Z3 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 2001 BMW Z3. 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, 2001 BMW Z3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 51 L |
