1961 Alpine A 108 vs. 1983 Mini MK V
To start off, 1983 Mini MK V is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Alpine A 108. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Alpine A 108 would be higher. At 997 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mini MK V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Alpine A 108 (49 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1983 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Alpine A 108 should accelerate faster than 1983 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Mini MK V weights approximately 30 kg more than 1961 Alpine A 108.
Because 1961 Alpine A 108 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 1961 Alpine A 108. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Mini MK V, 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, 1983 Mini MK V (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Alpine A 108. (57 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1983 Mini MK V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Alpine A 108.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Alpine A 108 | 1983 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Alpine | Mini |
| Model | A 108 | MK V |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 843 cc | 997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2040 mm |
