1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1951 Ferrari 212
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Ferrari 212. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Ferrari 212 would be higher. At 2,562 cc (12 cylinders), 1951 Ferrari 212 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Ferrari 212 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1951 Ferrari 212 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Ferrari 212 weights approximately 170 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 1951 Ferrari 212 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 1951 Ferrari 212. 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, 1951 Ferrari 212 (216 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1951 Ferrari 212 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 | 1951 Ferrari 212 | |
| Make | Austin | Ferrari |
| Model | Mini Metro | 212 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 2562 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 68 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 58.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 924 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 159 L |
