1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 BMW 540
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 is newer by 28 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 751 kg more than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 2008 BMW 540. 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, 2008 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi. 2008 BMW 540 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. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2008 BMW 540 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 540 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 4398 cc |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
