1963 AC Cobra vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1978 Mini MK IV is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 AC Cobra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 AC Cobra would be higher. At 4,727 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 AC Cobra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1963 AC Cobra (271 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 237 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1963 AC Cobra should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 AC Cobra weights approximately 440 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 AC Cobra 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 1963 AC Cobra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Mini MK IV, 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, 1963 AC Cobra (423 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 362 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1963 AC Cobra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 AC Cobra | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | AC | Mini |
| Model | Cobra | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1963 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4727 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 423 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2040 mm |
