1983 Austin Maestro vs. 2009 BMW 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 323 is newer by 26 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1983 Austin Maestro. (86 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 Austin Maestro.
Because 2009 BMW 323 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 2009 BMW 323. 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, 2009 BMW 323 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Austin Maestro. (123 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Austin Maestro. 1983 Austin Maestro has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Austin Maestro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Austin Maestro | 2009 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Maestro | 323 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2770 mm |
