1961 Mini MK I vs. 1951 Singer SM 1500
To start off, 1961 Mini MK I is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Singer SM 1500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Singer SM 1500 would be higher. At 1,495 cc (4 cylinders), 1951 Singer SM 1500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1951 Singer SM 1500 (47 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1951 Singer SM 1500 should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Singer SM 1500 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Singer SM 1500 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 1951 Singer SM 1500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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, 1951 Singer SM 1500 (98 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1951 Singer SM 1500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mini MK I | 1951 Singer SM 1500 | |
| Make | Mini | Singer |
| Model | MK I | SM 1500 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1951 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2320 mm |
