1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1986 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1986 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (162 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 393 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Ford Thunderbird 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 1986 Ford Thunderbird. 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, 1986 Ford Thunderbird (241 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1986 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 1986 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Maxi | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
