1961 Fiat 850 vs. 1986 Mini MK V
To start off, 1986 Mini MK V is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mini MK V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Fiat 850 (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1986 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Fiat 850 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mini MK V weights approximately 12 kg more than 1961 Fiat 850.
Because 1961 Fiat 850 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 1961 Fiat 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Mini MK V, 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, 1986 Mini MK V (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Mini MK V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Fiat 850 | 1986 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 850 | MK V |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 70 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 613 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3290 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2040 mm |
