1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1997 BMW 850
To start off, 1997 BMW 850 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 263 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 1030 kg more than 1983 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 388 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 1983 Austin Maestro has manual transmission. 1983 Austin Maestro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1997 BMW 850 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maestro | 850 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 5379 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 329 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 490 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
