1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1957 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1957 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1957 Ford Zodiac. (76 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford Zodiac. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1957 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 209 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Because 1957 Ford Zodiac 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 1957 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1957 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1957 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1957 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Maxi | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2720 mm |
