1961 Austin A 40 vs. 1962 Mini MK I
To start off, 1962 Mini MK I is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A 40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A 40 would be higher. At 948 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Austin A 40 (36 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1962 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Austin A 40 should accelerate faster than 1962 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A 40 weights approximately 145 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 1961 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 1961 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, 1961 Austin A 40 (68 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mini MK I. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1961 Austin A 40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A 40 | 1962 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Austin | Mini |
| Model | A 40 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 68 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1520 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2220 mm | 2040 mm |
