1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1989 Fiat 126
To start off, 1989 Fiat 126 is newer by 9 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 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Mini Metro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Austin Mini Metro (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Fiat 126. (26 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro should accelerate faster than 1989 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Mini Metro weights approximately 102 kg more than 1989 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Fiat 126 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 1989 Fiat 126. 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, 1980 Austin Mini Metro (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1980 Austin Mini Metro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 1989 Fiat 126 | |
| Make | Austin | Fiat |
| Model | Mini Metro | 126 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 703 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 49 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 50 L |
