1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1979 Fiat 126
To start off, 1981 Austin Maxi is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 126 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 67 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 126. (24 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Austin Maxi weights approximately 400 kg more than 1979 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Fiat 126 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 1979 Fiat 126. 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 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 126. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1979 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maxi | 126 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 652 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 70 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1390 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 1850 mm |
