1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 30 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 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (536 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 445 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1195 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL (799 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 658 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL has automatic transmission and 1981 Austin Maxi has manual transmission. 1981 Austin Maxi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2011 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | CL |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 536 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 799 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 5105 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1427 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2954 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |
