1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2002 Chevrolet SSR
To start off, 2002 Chevrolet SSR is newer by 19 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 5,316 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Chevrolet SSR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Chevrolet SSR should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Chevrolet SSR weights approximately 1170 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 2002 Chevrolet SSR 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 2002 Chevrolet SSR. 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, 2002 Chevrolet SSR (449 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Chevrolet SSR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2002 Chevrolet SSR | |
| Make | Austin | Chevrolet |
| Model | Maestro | SSR |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 5316 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 449 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 2154 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2950 mm |
