1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 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 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Mazda 323 (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 323 weights approximately 122 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, 1987 Mazda 323 (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1987 Mazda 323 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 | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Mini Metro | 323 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 3600 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 | 754 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
