1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1971 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 7,467 cc (8 cylinders), 1971 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Pontiac Firebird (335 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 273 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 696 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird 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 1971 Pontiac Firebird. 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. 1971 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 1980 Austin Mini Metro has manual transmission. 1980 Austin Mini Metro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1971 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Mini Metro | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 7467 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 104.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 108 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |
