| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1982 |
| Production Years: | 1982 - 1990 discontinued in 1990 |
The MG Metro was introduced in 1982 as a compact hatchback that successfully blended British automotive design with practical urban mobility. Produced from 1982 to 1990, this generation of the Metro offered drivers a nimble, space-efficient vehicle ideal for city driving and tight parking situations. Although exact dimensions may vary slightly by specific model variants, the MG Metro typically featured a length of approximately 3.5 meters (around 137.8 inches), a width near 1.6 meters (63 inches), and a height of about 1.4 meters (55 inches). These compact external dimensions made the Metro easy to maneuver on narrow streets while still providing a comfortable interior for passengers. Weight of the vehicle generally hovered in the range of 860 to 900 kilograms (1896 to 1984 pounds), contributing to efficient fuel consumption and responsive handling. The hatchback design enhanced practicality by offering a rear cargo opening and flexible storage options, a favored feature among small car enthusiasts of the 1980s. As a representative of the small hatchback class prevalent during the era, the MG Metro competed with other British and European subcompact cars, combining affordability with engaging driving dynamics. Its legacy is notable for maintaining MG's sporty image in a more accessible, everyday format, appealing to both young drivers and those seeking economical transportation. Today, the MG Metro remains a classic example of compact car engineering from the 1980s, reflecting the period’s emphasis on practicality, efficiency, and style in urban automotive design.
Discover the standout features that make the 1982 MG Metro a leader in its class
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The MG Metro, produced from 1982 to 1990, measures approximately 3,430 mm (135.0 inches) in length, 1,540 mm (60.6 inches) in width, and about 1,395 mm (54.9 inches) in height. These compact dimensions reflect its city-friendly hatchback design, making it easy to maneuver and park in urban environments. Its relatively narrow width helps in tight spaces, while the moderate height offers adequate headroom without compromising aerodynamics.
The MG Metro has a wheelbase of approximately 2,310 mm (90.9 inches). This wheelbase length is relatively short, in line with the Metro’s compact hatchback status. While it limits rear passenger legroom somewhat, it benefits maneuverability and agility in tight city streets. The shorter wheelbase means the ride can be a bit firm over rough surfaces, but it also contributes to the car's nimble handling characteristics, making it enjoyable for urban and spirited driving.
Depending on the specific variant and trim, the MG Metro typically weighs around 850 to 900 kilograms (1,874 to 1,984 pounds). This relatively lightweight stature contributes positively to its fuel efficiency, as the car requires less power for acceleration and cruising compared to heavier vehicles. The lighter weight also helps enhance handling responsiveness and agility. However, it means the car might feel less planted at higher speeds or in rougher driving conditions.
Despite its compact external dimensions, the MG Metro offers practical interior space for a small hatchback. It comfortably seats four adults, although rear seat legroom is best suited for shorter trips due to the 2,310 mm wheelbase constraint. The rear seats can be folded to expand cargo capacity, making it versatile for city errands. Its hatchback design enhances practicality compared to small sedans by allowing easier loading and more vertical storage space.
Yes, the MG Metro’s compact size makes it well-suited to fit into a standard residential garage. Standard garages typically measure around 2,400 to 2,700 mm (94 to 106 inches) in width and about 5,000 to 6,000 mm (197 to 236 inches) in length, so the Metro’s length of 3,430 mm (135 inches) and width of 1,540 mm (60.6 inches) allow it ample space for parking and maneuvering inside most typical garages.
The MG Metro was actually introduced as a new model in 1982 without a direct predecessor bearing the same name. However, it essentially evolved from the Austin Metro platform, which MG Rover used to market sportier and more upscale trims under the MG badge. Compared to the Austin Metro, the MG Metro shares virtually identical dimensions, focusing more on sportier features and trim rather than size differences. This means its compact, urbane dimensions were characteristic of the Metro family line.
In the landscape of 1980s compact hatchbacks, the MG Metro stood out for its petite dimensions. For example, compared to the Volkswagen Polo Mk1 (approx. 3,600 mm length) and Ford Fiesta Mk2 (approx. 3,625 mm length), the Metro was slightly shorter, enhancing its agility. Its width and height were also competitive within this segment, making it a practical urban car. Its light weight and compact footprint often gave it an advantage in maneuverability over some rival hatchbacks of similar size.
The MG Metro's design focuses on maximizing interior space while maintaining a compact exterior. It features a relatively tall roofline for headroom and a flat rear hatch for enhanced cargo access, contributing to its practicality. Its compact front and rear overhangs reduce overall length and improve ease of parking. The slim body side profile complements its narrow width, helping the vehicle fit into tight urban spaces. These design choices blend to provide a balance of dimensionally efficient packaging and classic 1980s styling.
Throughout its production from 1982 to 1990, the MG Metro typically came with small-displacement inline-four petrol engines, ranging from 998 cc to 1,275 cc. These engines were tuned to offer spirited performance within the small hatchback segment, with power outputs ranging roughly between 55 to 76 horsepower depending on the specific model and trim. The lightweight chassis of the Metro allowed these modest engines to provide responsive acceleration and good fuel economy, ideal for city driving.
The MG Metro's lightweight build and relatively small engines contribute to its competitive fuel efficiency for the time. It typically recorded fuel economy figures of around 6-7 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 40-45 miles per gallon US), placing it on par or slightly better than many contemporaries like the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo of the 1980s. Its compact size, simple mechanicals, and aerodynamic profile helped maximize fuel savings, making it an economical choice for commuters.
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