1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1949 Austin 16
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Austin 16. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Austin 16 would be higher. At 2,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1949 Austin 16 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1949 Austin 16 (63 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1949 Austin 16 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Austin 16 weights approximately 533 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Austin 16 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 1949 Austin 16. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, 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, 1949 Austin 16 (147 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1949 Austin 16 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1949 Austin 16 | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | Mini Metro | 16 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 2200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 63 L |
