1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2003 Suzuki Samurai
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Samurai is newer by 23 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 1,869 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Suzuki Samurai is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (63 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Samurai weights approximately 338 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 2003 Suzuki Samurai is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Samurai will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Suzuki Samurai (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Suzuki Samurai 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 | 2003 Suzuki Samurai | |
| Make | Austin | Suzuki |
| Model | Mini Metro | Samurai |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1869 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2490 mm |
