1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2002 Cadillac XLR

To start off, 2002 Cadillac XLR is newer by 21 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 4,570 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Cadillac XLR (316 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 669 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 2002 Cadillac XLR 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 2002 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2002 Cadillac XLR (407 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2002 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi. 2002 Cadillac XLR 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. 2002 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 Austin Maxi 2002 Cadillac XLR
Make Austin Cadillac
Model Maxi XLR
Year Released 1981 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1747 cc 4570 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 91 HP 316 HP
Engine RPM 5250 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 407 Nm
Torque RPM 3400 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76.2 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 95.8 mm 84 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 10.5:1
Top Speed 163 km/hour 250 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 985 kg 1654 kg
Vehicle Length 4020 mm 4520 mm
Vehicle Width 1630 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1290 mm
Wheelbase Size 2670 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 68 L