1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 155 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
