1961 Mini MK I vs. 1958 Renault Dauphine
To start off, 1961 Mini MK I is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Renault Dauphine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Renault Dauphine would be higher. At 847 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Mini MK I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mini MK I (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1958 Renault Dauphine. (33 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I should accelerate faster than 1958 Renault Dauphine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 Renault Dauphine weights approximately 17 kg more than 1961 Mini MK I.
Because 1958 Renault Dauphine 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 1958 Renault Dauphine. 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, 1961 Mini MK I (60 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Renault Dauphine. (45 Nm). This means 1961 Mini MK I will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Renault Dauphine.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mini MK I | 1958 Renault Dauphine | |
| Make | Mini | Renault |
| Model | MK I | Dauphine |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 33 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 45 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 632 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2280 mm |
