1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 27 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 864 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | SL |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 90 L |
