1961 Mini MK I vs. 1973 Nissan Laurel
To start off, 1973 Nissan Laurel is newer by 12 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 1,813 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Laurel (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Laurel should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Nissan Laurel weights approximately 395 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 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 1973 Nissan Laurel. 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, 1973 Nissan Laurel (155 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Laurel 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 | 1973 Nissan Laurel | |
| Make | Mini | Nissan |
| Model | MK I | Laurel |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1813 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 615 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2630 mm |
