1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2009 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 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 8 more horse power than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (83 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Austin Maxi should accelerate faster than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Because 2009 Smart ForTwo 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 2009 Smart ForTwo. 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 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Smart ForTwo. (121 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1981 Austin Maxi will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Smart ForTwo.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Austin Maxi | 2009 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Austin | Smart |
Model | Maxi | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1747 cc | 999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 91 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 72.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 81.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 2700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1550 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 1870 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 33 L |