1961 Mini MK I vs. 1971 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1971 Opel Rekord is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,492 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Opel Rekord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Opel Rekord (59 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Opel Rekord should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Opel Rekord weights approximately 475 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 1971 Opel Rekord 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 1971 Opel Rekord. 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, 1971 Opel Rekord (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1971 Opel Rekord 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 | 1971 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mini | Opel |
| Model | MK I | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2670 mm |
