1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2009 Nissan Frontier
To start off, 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Frontier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Frontier (261 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Frontier should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Frontier weights approximately 688 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 Nissan Frontier 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 Nissan Frontier. 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 Nissan Frontier (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 284 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Frontier 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 | 2009 Nissan Frontier | |
| Make | Austin | Nissan |
| Model | Mini Metro | Frontier |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1442 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 5580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 80 L |
