1988 Austin Maestro vs. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (236 HP) has 170 more horse power than 1988 Austin Maestro. (66 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Maestro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning weights approximately 403 kg more than 1988 Austin Maestro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning 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 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning (305 Nm) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm). This means 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Maestro | 2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning | |
| Make | Austin | Vauxhall |
| Model | Maestro | VX Lightning |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 236 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2420 mm |
