1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2006 Saleen S7
To start off, 2006 Saleen S7 is newer by 26 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 7,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Saleen S7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saleen S7 (750 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 678 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saleen S7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saleen S7 weights approximately 263 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 2006 Saleen S7 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 2006 Saleen S7. 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, 2006 Saleen S7 (949 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 817 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Saleen S7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2006 Saleen S7 | |
| Make | Austin | Saleen |
| Model | Maxi | S7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 7000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 750 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 949 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1981 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1041 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2692 mm |
