1987 Austin Maestro vs. 1981 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 1987 Austin Maestro is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Skoda Rapid R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Austin Maestro weights approximately 63 kg more than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Skoda Rapid R 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 1981 Skoda Rapid R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1987 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Austin Maestro | 1981 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Austin | Skoda |
| Model | Maestro | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 47 L |
