1962 Fiat 500 vs. 1966 Mini MK I
To start off, 1966 Mini MK I is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 848 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Mini MK I is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Mini MK I (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1962 Fiat 500. (22 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Mini MK I should accelerate faster than 1962 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Mini MK I weights approximately 130 kg more than 1962 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 Fiat 500 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 1962 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 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, 1966 Mini MK I (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Fiat 500. (36 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1966 Mini MK I will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Fiat 500 | 1966 Mini MK I | |
| Make | Fiat | Mini |
| Model | 500 | MK I |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 22 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 36 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 485 kg | 615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2040 mm |
