1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1997 Caterham C21
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 17 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 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Austin Mini Metro weights approximately 100 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 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 | 1997 Caterham C21 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | Mini Metro | C21 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 654 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1060 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2260 mm |
