1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 24 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 358 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Metro | Polo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 45 L |
