1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1973 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 5,792 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (158 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 831 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 1973 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 1973 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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Pontiac Firebird (366 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1973 Pontiac Firebird 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 | 1973 Pontiac Firebird | |
Make | Austin | Pontiac |
Model | Mini Metro | Firebird |
Year Released | 1980 | 1973 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1257 cc | 5792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 62 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Torque | 97 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4880 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2750 mm |