1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 36 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 2,551 cc (5 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Microbus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (134 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 1076 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 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 1997 Volkswagen Microbus. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Microbus (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Microbus 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 2551 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1960 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
