1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 BMW M3
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 345 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 830 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (105 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | M3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
