1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 28 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (190 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 385 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | B |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 225 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 | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
