1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2008 Isuzu I-290
To start off, 2008 Isuzu I-290 is newer by 28 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 2,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Isuzu I-290 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Isuzu I-290 (185 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Isuzu I-290 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro.
Because 2008 Isuzu I-290 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 2008 Isuzu I-290. 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, 2008 Isuzu I-290 (258 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2008 Isuzu I-290 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 | 2008 Isuzu I-290 | |
| Make | Austin | Isuzu |
| Model | Mini Metro | I-290 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 2901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 258 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 5270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 74 L |
