1960 Mini MK I vs. 1977 Opel Kadett
To start off, 1977 Opel Kadett is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Opel Kadett is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Opel Kadett (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1960 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Opel Kadett should accelerate faster than 1960 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Opel Kadett weights approximately 170 kg more than 1960 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Opel Kadett 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 1977 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1960 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, 1977 Opel Kadett (113 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1960 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1977 Opel Kadett will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1960 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1960 Mini MK I | 1977 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK I | Kadett |
| Year Released | 1960 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 113 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2500 mm |
