1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (45 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 582 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 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice. 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 Pontiac Solstice (353 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (73 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 Pontiac Solstice | |
| Make | Austin | Pontiac |
| Model | Mini Metro | Solstice |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 45 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 73 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 747 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 49 L |
