1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1966 Datsun 1000
To start off, 1966 Datsun 1000 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 988 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Datsun 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Datsun 1000 (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Datsun 1000 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Datsun 1000 weights approximately 41 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 Datsun 1000 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 1966 Datsun 1000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 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, 1966 Datsun 1000 (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1966 Datsun 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 1966 Datsun 1000 | |
| Make | Austin | Datsun |
| Model | Mini Cooper | 1000 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 61 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 59 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 3820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2290 mm |
