1959 Austin A 40 vs. 1975 Mini MK III
To start off, 1975 Mini MK III is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 34 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Austin A 40 weights approximately 150 kg more than 1975 Mini MK III.
Because 1959 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 1959 Austin A 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK III, 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, 1959 Austin A 40 (68 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1959 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 40 | 1975 Mini MK III | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK III |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1975 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 997 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2040 mm |
