1961 Mini MK I vs. 1959 Renault Fregate
To start off, 1961 Mini MK I is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Renault Fregate. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Renault Fregate would be higher. At 2,141 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Renault Fregate is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Renault Fregate (76 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1959 Renault Fregate should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Renault Fregate weights approximately 695 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 1959 Renault Fregate 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 1959 Renault Fregate. 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, 1959 Renault Fregate (153 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1959 Renault Fregate 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 | 1959 Renault Fregate | |
| Make | Mini | Renault |
| Model | MK I | Fregate |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 153 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2810 mm |
