1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2003 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2003 Ford Mustang is newer by 42 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Mustang (188 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Mustang weights approximately 826 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 2003 Ford Mustang 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 2003 Ford Mustang. 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, 2003 Ford Mustang (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Mustang 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 | 2003 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 3801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 45 L |
