1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2006 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2006 Smart ForTwo is newer by 26 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 1,257 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Austin Mini Metro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart ForTwo (74 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Smart ForTwo weights approximately 66 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 2006 Smart ForTwo is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Austin Mini Metro, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Smart ForTwo (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2006 Smart ForTwo 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 | 2006 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Austin | Smart |
| Model | Mini Metro | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 2510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 33 L |
