1983 Austin Maestro vs. 1997 Mercury MC4
To start off, 1997 Mercury MC4 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 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury MC4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury MC4 (202 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury MC4 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Because 1997 Mercury MC4 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 Mercury MC4. 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 Mercury MC4 (387 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 264 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury MC4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 1997 Mercury MC4 | |
| Make | Austin | Mercury |
| Model | Maestro | MC4 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4601 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 387 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
