1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1961 Mazda R 360
To start off, 1983 Austin Maestro is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Austin Maestro (67 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1961 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1961 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Austin Maestro weights approximately 495 kg more than 1961 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Mazda R 360 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 1961 Mazda R 360. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Austin Maestro, 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, 1983 Austin Maestro (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1983 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1961 Mazda R 360 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maestro | R 360 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1961 |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 356 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 22 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 60 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 63 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 2990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 1770 mm |
