1989 Austin Maestro vs. 1985 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 1989 Austin Maestro is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Austin Maestro (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1985 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Austin Maestro should accelerate faster than 1985 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac 1000 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Austin Maestro.
Because 1985 Pontiac 1000 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 1985 Pontiac 1000. 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, 1985 Pontiac 1000 (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Austin Maestro | 1985 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Maestro | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1275 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 915 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2400 mm |
