1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 2010 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 49 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 1,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 566 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2010 Volkswagen Polo (180 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Polo 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 | 2010 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Cooper | Polo |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1682 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2470 mm |
