1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 BMW 125
To start off, 2009 BMW 125 is newer by 29 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 125 weights approximately 546 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 2009 BMW 125 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 2009 BMW 125. 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, 2009 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2009 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 125 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 53 L |
