1954 Austin A 40 vs. 1962 Mini MK I
To start off, 1962 Mini MK I is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 1954 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1954 Austin A 40 (41 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1962 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1954 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1962 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Austin A 40 weights approximately 415 kg more than 1962 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 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 1954 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1962 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, 1954 Austin A 40 (79 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1954 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Austin A 40 | 1962 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1962 |
| 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 | 41 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2040 mm |
