1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1972 AC 428
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AC 428 weights approximately 680 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 1972 AC 428 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 1972 AC 428. 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, 1972 AC 428 (639 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 542 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1972 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 1972 AC 428 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. 1972 AC 428 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1972 AC 428 | |
| Make | Austin | AC |
| Model | Mini Metro | 428 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |
