1989 Austin Maestro vs. 1971 Fiat 124
To start off, 1989 Austin Maestro is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,275 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Austin Maestro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 124. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Austin Maestro weights approximately 3 kg more than 1971 Fiat 124. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Fiat 124 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 1971 Fiat 124. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Austin Maestro (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 124. (89 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1989 Austin Maestro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Maestro | 1971 Fiat 124 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Maestro | 124 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 71.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 38 L |
