1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New 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 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 438 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 New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New 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 New Beetle | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Metro | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
