1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (101 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 266 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A 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 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mini Metro | A |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 54 L |
