1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 Lotus Elise
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Lotus Elise is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (189 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Maxi weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise 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 Lotus Elise. 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 Lotus Elise (181 Nm @ 6800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Elise will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2009 Lotus Elise | |
| Make | Austin | Lotus |
| Model | Maxi | Elise |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 40 L |
