1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1975 Renault 12
To start off, 1980 Austin Mini Metro is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,289 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Renault 12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Renault 12 (53 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Renault 12 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Renault 12 weights approximately 153 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1975 Renault 12 (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1975 Renault 12 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 | 1975 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Austin | Renault |
| Model | Mini Metro | 12 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 56 L |
