1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 48 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 1,307 cc, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 541 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 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Mini Cooper | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 64 L |
