1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1966 BMW 1602
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 BMW 1602. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 BMW 1602 would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1966 BMW 1602. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1966 BMW 1602. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Austin Maxi weights approximately 45 kg more than 1966 BMW 1602. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 BMW 1602 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 1966 BMW 1602. 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, 1981 Austin Maxi (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 BMW 1602. (130 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 BMW 1602.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1966 BMW 1602 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | 1602 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1574 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 159 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 46 L |
