1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 23 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 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Because 2003 Smart Roadster 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 2003 Smart Roadster. 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, 2003 Smart Roadster (130 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (105 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Maxi | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 35 L |
