Info für Besucher ohne Javascript

Premium

Maximization - Austin Maxi in the (historical) test

This article was auto-translated. We apologize if some words are confusing or simply amusing. Would you like to help us improve?

Created on January 11, 1975

Text:

Olaf von Fersen

Photos:

Archiv

26

Archiv

26

Austin Maxi (1974) - Highline version

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - ready to go on vacation

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - with five doors including tailgate

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - 1500 Sedan

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - versatile family car

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - makes you happy

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - deserves more credit

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - the Austin model with the fewest problems

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - its front is reminiscent of the Fiat 124 and earlier Opel Kadett models - Geneva Motor Show 1970

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1970) - five large doors make it particularly practical - Geneva Motor Show 1970

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1972) - sensible car

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1972) - popular with families

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1972) - Presentation with the Concorde in the background

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - more luxuriously equipped HL version

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - with large tailgate

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - Series II

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - focuses on utility value

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - various paint finishes

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1975) - with new engine design

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1975) - ideal everyday car

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1975) - HL and 1750 version

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1976) - 1750 Sedan

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1976) - even the dog can join in

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1972) - Dashboard made of precious wood

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1974) - converted into a couchette coach

When logged in, you see more images in larger size.

Austin Maxi (1972) - Cutaway

You have only

1 out of 26

images seen in high resolution

Summary

The Austin Maxi, which was launched in 1969, was intended to set new standards for everyday cars in England. It appealed to reason and economic thinking and was not intended to offer much prestige, let alone sporting performance, which is why it was not very popular at the beginning. However, this historical test report reveals what made the Series II car the least problematic Austin model of its time.

This article contains the following chapters

Motor
Gearbox and gearshift
Chassis
Bodywork
Living with the Maxi
Driving behavior
Plus points
Minus points
Overall verdict
Technical data & measured values

Estimated reading time: 17min

Preview (beginning of the article)

Until 1959, England's cars were considered technically conservative to backward. Then came the Mini, which changed everything. Ten years later - in 1969 - the Austin Maxi was introduced; a car that also deviated from the beaten track and was to set new standards for everyday cars. Neither Austin had an easy time winning the public's favor at first. The Mini only gained acceptance when it began to disrespectfully mow down its high-horsepower rivals in sport and has remained a classless car to this day - something that only the VW Beetle has ever achieved. The Maxi, on the other hand, appeals to reason and economic thinking. It therefore has a hard time selling. Yet it deserves far more credit, because after the Mini, it is certainly the best horse in the Leyland stable - in a different field.

Welcome to Zwischengas!

Continue reading this article for free?

Images of this article

Source: