1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2009 Cadillac XLR
To start off, 2009 Cadillac XLR is newer by 29 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Cadillac XLR (322 HP @ 6450 RPM) has 260 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 968 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 2009 Cadillac XLR 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 2009 Cadillac XLR. 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, 2009 Cadillac XLR (423 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2009 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 2009 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1980 Austin Mini Metro has manual transmission. 1980 Austin Mini Metro will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 2009 Cadillac XLR | |
| Make | Austin | Cadillac |
| Model | Mini Metro | XLR |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 4565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 322 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 6450 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 423 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 68 L |
