1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1965 NSU 1200
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 1,177 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 NSU 1200 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 NSU 1200 (54 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1965 NSU 1200 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Mini Metro weights approximately 31 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 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 1965 NSU 1200. 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, 1965 NSU 1200 (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1965 NSU 1200 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 | 1965 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | Austin | NSU |
| Model | Mini Metro | 1200 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2440 mm |
