1956 Austin A 40 vs. 1976 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1976 Mini MK IV is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Austin A 40 (49 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1976 Mini MK IV. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1976 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Austin A 40 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1976 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 1956 Austin A 40 (100 Nm @ 2100 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1956 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Austin A 40 | 1976 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2100 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 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 |
