1951 Austin A 40 vs. 1988 Mini MK V
To start off, 1988 Mini MK V is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1951 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mini MK V (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1951 Austin A 40. (38 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A 40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Austin A 40 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1988 Mini MK V.
Because 1951 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 1951 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V, 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, 1951 Austin A 40 (80 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mini MK V. (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1951 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A 40 | 1988 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK V |
| Year Released | 1951 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 625 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 |
