I had a 2012 mini - it was my second computer after my 2010 iMac. I had it for quite a while, and grew VERY frustrated with how slow it was. even after replacing the awfully slow Hitachi HDD with an SSD. The M1 was a MASSIVE step up from the 2012 mini.
It all depends on when you need it - do you need it right now, or can you wait till the fall when POSSIBLY the M2 Mac mini gets announced?
I don't ever believe fully in leaks/rumors - i.e., something WILL be announced in the fall, but it actually isn't... so you might just get an M1 mini if you are doubtful.