1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2008 Renault Vel Satis
To start off, 2008 Renault Vel Satis is newer by 27 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 2,188 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Vel Satis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Renault Vel Satis should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Vel Satis weights approximately 875 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Renault Vel Satis (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Vel Satis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2008 Renault Vel Satis | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | Maxi | Vel Satis |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2188 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
