1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 22 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 3,996 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1005 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (560 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 419 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | S |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 242 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |
