1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1985 Pontiac 1000

To start off, 1985 Pontiac 1000 is newer by 5 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Pontiac 1000 (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Pontiac 1000 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Pontiac 1000 weights approximately 206 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 1985 Pontiac 1000 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 1985 Pontiac 1000. 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, 1985 Pontiac 1000 (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1985 Pontiac 1000 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 1985 Pontiac 1000
Make Austin Pontiac
Model Mini Metro 1000
Year Released 1980 1985
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1257 cc 1599 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 62 HP 64 HP
Engine RPM 5650 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 97 Nm 109 Nm
Torque RPM 3100 RPM 3200 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 754 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 3410 mm 4120 mm
Vehicle Width 1550 mm 1580 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2400 mm