1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1993 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1993 TVR Chimaera is newer by 13 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 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1993 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 TVR Chimaera (276 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 TVR Chimaera weights approximately 296 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 1993 TVR Chimaera 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 1993 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1993 TVR Chimaera (388 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 291 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1993 TVR Chimaera 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 | 1993 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Austin | TVR |
| Model | Mini Metro | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 57 L |
