1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 BMW Z3
To start off, 2002 BMW Z3 is newer by 22 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW Z3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW Z3 weights approximately 416 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 BMW Z3 (301 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi. 2002 BMW Z3 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. 2002 BMW Z3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2002 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 51 L |
