1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1961 Austin A 40
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Mini Metro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Mini Metro (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1961 Austin A 40. (36 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 40 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Because 1961 Austin A 40 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 1961 Austin A 40. 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, 1980 Austin Mini Metro (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A 40. (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Mini Metro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A 40.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1961 Austin A 40 | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | Mini Metro | A 40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 948 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 36 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 45 L |
