1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2004 BMW Z4
To start off, 2004 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 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 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW Z4 (225 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW Z4 weights approximately 410 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 2004 BMW Z4 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 2004 BMW Z4. 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, 2004 BMW Z4 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2004 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2004 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maxi | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
