1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 163 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 48 L |
