1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1990 BMW 316
To start off, 1990 BMW 316 is newer by 10 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 316 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 316 weights approximately 333 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 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. 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, 1990 BMW 316 (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 316 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 | 1990 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Austin | BMW |
| Model | Mini Metro | 316 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 70 L |
