1980 Austin Mini Metro vs. 2011 Alpina B7
To start off, 2011 Alpina B7 is newer by 31 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 4,396 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Alpina B7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Alpina B7 (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 431 more horse power than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (62 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Alpina B7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Alpina B7 weights approximately 1206 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 2011 Alpina B7 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 2011 Alpina B7. 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, 2011 Alpina B7 (700 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 603 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. (97 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2011 Alpina B7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Austin Mini Metro. 2011 Alpina B7 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. 2011 Alpina B7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Austin Mini Metro | 2011 Alpina B7 | |
| Make | Austin | Alpina |
| Model | Mini Metro | B7 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1257 cc | 4396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 97 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.7 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 754 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 88 L |
