1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1974 Mazda 818
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda 818 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 23 more horse power than 1974 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda 818 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Because 1974 Mazda 818 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 1974 Mazda 818. 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1974 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | 818 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2320 mm |
