1961 Austin A vs. 1964 Austin Mini Cooper
To start off, 1964 Austin Mini Cooper is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Austin Mini Cooper (76 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1961 Austin A. (38 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1964 Austin Mini Cooper should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 495 kg more than 1964 Austin Mini Cooper.
Because 1961 Austin A 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. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1964 Austin Mini Cooper, 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, 1964 Austin Mini Cooper (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1964 Austin Mini Cooper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1964 Austin Mini Cooper | |
| Make | Austin | Austin |
| Model | A | Mini Cooper |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1964 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 70.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 81.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
