Haha - I wondered if you were in NZ. I just had that feeling that you were! So, 1989 means 'Mk1', and it's called a 'Sting'.
Is this that black 'modified' one that was on Trademe? We need some pictures!

(click Go Advanced, Manage Attachments)
Although both engines have the same 45bhp, the 903cc with 67Nm doesn't have the torque that the 999cc has (and with 80Nm the 999cc is not exactly a stump-puller

) so I think if I had the 903cc, I'd be forced to upgrade it.
I believe your 1976 Mini would have had less power (34bhp?) but definitely more torque, so yes the Mini would have got up hills easier. Torque is for acceleration and climbing hills, power is for top speed - I think you would find that the Uno gets up to a higher top speed (140km/h is claimed) than the Mini, helped as well by the better aerodynamics: Cd only 0.34!
Anyway - so your options are:
- Give it a tuneup and hope for the best

- Fit some tuning goodies intended for the old FIAT 850 or 127. Shave the head, fit a bigger carb, hot cam, etc. If you can find them!
- Swap it for a FIRE engine, preferably 1108cc as I reckon that's the best all-rounder. Will need mountings etc. and possibly gearbox.
You could go down the path of a bigger (1301cc/1372cc/1498cc/1580cc) engine (with an Uno 70 as a donor for mountings and other parts), or a complete re-shell of an Uno Turbo into yours, but with fuel prices going the way they are, I think you want to keep it small and simple.
If you're looking for parts, try
www.fiatparts.co.nz and tell him I sent you
Cheers,
-Alex