1948 Austin A 40 vs. 1977 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1977 Mini MK IV is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1948 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Mini MK IV (44 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1948 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV should accelerate faster than 1948 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1948 Austin A 40 weights approximately 325 kg more than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Because 1948 Austin A 40 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1948 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Mini MK IV, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1948 Austin A 40 (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mini MK IV. (76 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1948 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Austin A 40 | 1977 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 76 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2040 mm |
