1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 31 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 446 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 956 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS (699 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 567 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | CLS |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4996 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1882 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1407 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 80 L |
