1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1981 Isuzu Gemini
To start off, 1981 Isuzu Gemini is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Austin Mini Metro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Austin Mini Metro would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Isuzu Gemini is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Isuzu Gemini (79 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Isuzu Gemini should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Isuzu Gemini weights approximately 186 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 1981 Isuzu Gemini 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 1981 Isuzu Gemini. 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, 1981 Isuzu Gemini (116 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1981 Isuzu Gemini will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 1981 Isuzu Gemini 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. 1981 Isuzu Gemini will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1981 Isuzu Gemini | |
| Make | Austin | Isuzu |
| Model | Mini Metro | Gemini |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
