1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1971 Chevrolet Vega
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Chevrolet Vega. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Chevrolet Vega would be higher. At 2,287 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Chevrolet Vega is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1971 Chevrolet Vega. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Chevrolet Vega weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Because 1971 Chevrolet Vega 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 1971 Chevrolet Vega. 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, 1971 Chevrolet Vega (167 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1971 Chevrolet Vega will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi. 1971 Chevrolet Vega has automatic transmission and 1981 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1981 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Chevrolet Vega will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1971 Chevrolet Vega | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Maxi | Vega |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2287 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 91.9 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 42 L |
