1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 21 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (180 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 559 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, 2001 Volkswagen Beetle (235 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen Beetle 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 | 2001 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Metro | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1313 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
