1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2005 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2005 Smart Roadster 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 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Austin Maxi is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Austin Maxi (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Austin Maxi weights approximately 97 kg more than 2005 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Smart Roadster 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 Smart Roadster. 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, 1981 Austin Maxi (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1981 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2005 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Maxi | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 180 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 | 888 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 35 L |
