1953 Austin A 40 vs. 1966 Mini MK I
To start off, 1966 Mini MK I is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1953 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1953 Austin A 40 (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1966 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1953 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Austin A 40 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1966 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1953 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 1953 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Mini MK I, 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, 1953 Austin A 40 (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1953 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1953 Austin A 40 | 1966 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1953 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1200 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2040 mm |
