1980 Austin Maxi vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 5,437 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1980 Austin Maxi. (72 HP @ 4900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 861 kg more than 1980 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Maxi, 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Maxi. (132 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Maxi | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Maxi | SLK |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1748 cc | 5437 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 984 kg | 1845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 70 L |
