1981 Austin Maxi vs. 1996 Caterham 7
To start off, 1996 Caterham 7 is newer by 15 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Austin Maxi weights approximately 507 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 7 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 1996 Caterham 7. 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, 1996 Caterham 7 (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1996 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Austin Maxi | 1996 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Austin | Caterham |
Model | Maxi | 7 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 91 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 156 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 478 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2240 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 36 L |