🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Austin Model: Metro Year: 1982 👋 Introduction Market Position Purpose: To provide comprehensive service, maintenance, and troubleshooting information for the Austin Metro 1982. Competitive Analysis...
Likely covers the A-Series engine family, including 998cc and 1275cc variants common in early Metros.
Performance
Power Output Range:
Estimated 40-60 bhp depending on engine size and tuning, typical for the era.
Fuel System
Induction Type:
Likely Carbureted (e.g., SU or Weber) for most models, with potential for early fuel injection on specific variants, as indicated by 'Fuel Injection / Fuel System' coverage.
Engine Service
Rebuild Procedures:
The manual will contain detailed procedures for engine disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly.
Engine Maintenance
Timing Belt Chain:
Details on timing chain maintenance/replacement, as the A-Series is a chain-driven engine.
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Transmission Type:
Likely a 4-speed manual transmission, a common offering for the Austin Metro.
Optional
Optional Transmission:
Potential for a 3-speed automatic transmission as an option on some models.
Features
Gearbox Oil:
Specifications for gearbox oil type and capacity will be included.
Transmission Service
Clutch Replacement:
Procedures for clutch inspection, adjustment, and replacement.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Body Style:
Supermini, predominantly 3-door hatchback.
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 700-800 kg (1540-1760 lbs), depending on engine and specification.
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
Approximately 2,286 mm (90 inches).
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Crash Safety:
Likely limited by the safety standards of the early 1980s; the manual will cover restraint systems and chassis integrity.
Active Features
Braking System:
Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes are typical for the era and model.
Passive Features
Seatbelts:
Coverage of seatbelt systems and their maintenance.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio, possibly with cassette player, as standard or optional equipment.
Driver Assistance
Features:
Limited to basic systems; no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) expected.
Connectivity
Features:
No electronic connectivity features as understood today.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 6,000-8,000 miles or 12 months, specific details in the manual.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
Likely 20W-50 or 10W-40 mineral oil, depending on climate and engine wear, specific API service classification to be confirmed in manual.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based coolant, mixed with distilled water, likely a traditional green coolant for the era.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Common Faults:
Potential for rust, carburetor issues, electrical gremlins, suspension wear, and cooling system leaks, all of which the manual will address.
Tune Up Procedures
Spark Plugs:
Specific spark plug types, gap settings, and replacement intervals will be detailed.
Lubrication
Grease Points:
Manual will detail chassis lubrication points and recommended grease types.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Manufacturer:
Austin Rover Group (part of British Leyland at the time).
Model Evolution
Launch Year:
1980
Design Basis:
Developed from the British Motor Corporation (BMC) ADO16 platform, sharing many design principles.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Longbridge, Birmingham, UK.
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Design Awards:
The Austin Metro was awarded 'Car of the Year' by several UK publications upon its release.