Austin Metro
The British car to beat the world: a space-efficient supermini icon.
- Power
- 45 bhp
- Top speed
- 84 mph
About the Austin Metro
Launched in 1980 as the Austin Mini Metro, this supermini was British Leyland's long-awaited successor to the original Mini. It featured a remarkably spacious interior for its size, aided by a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and Hydragas suspension that provided a refined ride for the class. The 1.0 L trim was a mid-range offering, distinguished by its recessed headlamps and the venerable A-Series engine. While it never quite replaced the Mini, it became a British cultural staple and a massive sales success throughout the 1980s.
Austin Metro specs
The Austin Metro produces 45 bhp (34 kW) and 72 Nm (53 lb-ft) of torque. It has a top speed of 84 mph (135 km/h).
| Make | Austin |
|---|---|
| Model | Metro |
| Trim | 1.0 L |
| Years | 1980–1990 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Hatchback |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Engine | 1.0-litre A-Series I4 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 998 cc (1.0 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 45 bhp (34 kW) at 5,400 rpm |
| Torque | 72 Nm (53 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 6,000 rpm |
| Top speed | 84 mph (135 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 740 kg (1,631 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 61 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
Austin Metro rarity in CarSpot
The Austin Metro is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Austin Metro fun facts
- A 19-year-old Lady Diana Spencer famously owned a red Austin Metro before her marriage to Prince Charles, making it one of the most photographed cars of the early 1980s.
- The Metro's name was chosen by a ballot of British Leyland employees; the other options were 'Maestro' and 'Match'.
- Early 1.0 and 1.0 L models featured recessed headlamps to save costs, while higher trims like the HLE and HLS received flush-fitting units.